brushing off

VERB

ignore; refuse

Synonyms

WEAK

boycott cold-shoulder contradict cut deny disclaim dismiss disown disregard get rid of have no time for ostracize override rebuff reject repudiate scorn send away slight snub spurn sweep aside

Antonyms

WEAK

attend pay attention see

VERB

ignore

Synonyms

WEAK

boycott brush aside cold-shoulder contradict cut deny disclaim dismiss disown disregard ostracize override rebuff refuse reject repudiate scorn send away slight snub spurn sweep aside

Antonyms

WEAK

attend pay attention

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After a quarter of brushing off their rust following a three-week break, No. 1 Indiana rolled to a 38-3 Rose Bowl victory over No. 9 Alabama Thursday afternoon in front of a crowd of 90,278.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

As for Chalk brushing off critiques of Dick’s previous depictions, an actor shouldn’t have to care about his character’s reputation.

From Salon • Dec. 8, 2025

“I don’t think it’ll ever change,” Gainer said, brushing off the suggestion that perhaps one day a robot could do his job.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 9, 2025

For now, Cuomo can press onward, ignoring his rivals, skipping candidate forums, and brushing off media.

From Slate • Mar. 12, 2025

“Naw,” said Bunny, brushing off this thought with a slight flick of the hand.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt