The spelling of "push broom" follows the phonetic transcription /pʊʃ bruːm/. The first syllable is pronounced like "push" with a short "u" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced like "broom" with a long "u" sound. The word refers to a sweeping tool with stiff bristles that are pushed along the ground to clean floors and other surfaces. The spelling of "push broom" is fairly simple and easy to remember for most English speakers.
A push broom refers to a specialized cleaning tool typically consisting of a long handle attached to a wide brush head with bristles or fibers. It is designed for sweeping and cleaning large areas such as floors, sidewalks, garages, or industrial spaces effectively. The brush head of a push broom is usually rectangular or square-shaped, composed of stiff and durable bristles made from materials like natural fibers, synthetic materials, or a combination of both.
The long handle of the push broom allows the user to stand upright while pushing the broom across the surface to be cleaned, minimizing strain on the back and reducing exhaustion during prolonged sweeping. This type of broom is intended to provide efficient sweeping by smoothly displacing dirt, dust, debris, or other loose particles in a forward motion.
Push brooms are commonly used in both residential and commercial settings for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. They are highly suitable for removing loose materials that might be difficult to clean with a regular broom. Moreover, push brooms are often equipped with features like adjustable handle lengths or bolt-on accessories to enhance their versatility and convenience.
Due to their large size and robust construction, push brooms are frequently used outdoors or in areas with high traffic or accumulation of debris. From homes and offices to construction sites and warehouses, push brooms find great utility across various environments, making them an essential tool in maintaining cleanliness and tidiness.
The etymology of the word "push broom" can be traced back to the Middle English period. The word "push" originated from the Old French word "poulser", meaning to thrust or poke. In English, it evolved to mean the act of applying force to move something forward.
The word "broom" has a different origin, derived from the Old English word "brōm", which referred to a shrub or plant with long, stiff, and slender twigs. Brooms made from these plants were used for sweeping purposes.
The combination of "push" and "broom" in the phrase "push broom" is quite literal, as it describes a broom that is utilized by pushing it along the ground to sweep away dirt and debris. The term has been in usage for centuries, combining the action of pushing with the tool itself, resulting in the well-known term "push broom".