A motor may have or more pairs of brushes which served as the positive and negative voltage terminals to the motor. Current is delivered through the brushes to armature (the commutator and from there the motor windings). Typical brush materials are highly conductive alloys containing precious metals or sintered materials like copper or silver graphite.

points where power source makes contact with rotating commutator.

Devices for transferring power to or from a rotating object. Usually made of carbon-graphite. Found in electric motors, alternators and generators.

Brushes are small blocks of electrically conductive carbon pressed down by springs to conduct current to a power tool. Brushes gradually wear down and must be replaced. Most industrial tools are designed to allow for easy brush inspection and replacement. Other tools require shop service for brush replacement.

The traditional brush used for fresco painting contains no metal and is composed long soft bristles bound by coated string to a wooden handle. Other brushes suitable for fresco are synthetic watercolor, Japanese wash and sign painter's brushes.

A device composed of bristles and set into a suitable back or handle and used for applying paint to a canvas.

Marquetry and inlay workers need a good selection of brushes for touching up details, gluing, varnishing, and so on. Buy the most expensive, and keep them clean and dry.