broom  (br m, br m)
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n.1. An implement used for sweeping, typically consisting of a bunch of stiff synthetic fibers or broomcorn stalks, or formerly twigs or straw, bound together and attached to a handle. 2. a. Any of various European and North African shrubs of the genus Cytisus in the pea family, especially C. scoparius, having mostly compound leaves with three leaflets and showy, usually bright yellow flowers. b. Any of several similar or related shrubs, especially in the genera Genista and Spartium. tr.v. broomed, broom·ing, brooms To sweep with a broom.
[Middle English brom, from Old English brōm, broom plant (Cytisus scoparius and similar plants); akin to Dutch braam, blackberry, bramble, from Germanic *brēmaz, prickly shrub.]
broomy adj. |
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