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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn how “airbrush” can mean retouching an image or hiding an uncomfortable part of the past.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Airbrush” began as the name of a painting tool and is now also a verb for editing an image or concealing flaws. In a figurative use, “airbrush history” means removing or obscuring troubling events as if they never happened.
Cultural note: Saying someone “airbrushed history” is an accusation of concealment, not neutral photo editing. Use it only when you can support the criticism; it can imply deliberate dishonesty.
Keep exploringA tool for smoothing a picture becomes a metaphor for smoothing over the past. See how one verb moves from art to public memory.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Talk about changing a picture or covering visible flaws.
Meaning
Edit an image to smooth or remove imperfections.
Tone & use
A verb used in photography, publishing, and beauty contexts. It may describe routine retouching or, critically, unrealistic editing.
Example
“The magazine airbrushed the photo so heavily that the model’s skin looked unreal.”
Meaning
Edit an image digitally; sometimes used broadly for retouching.
Tone & use
A brand name commonly used informally as a verb. For precision, say “edit the image” when the exact software is unknown.
Example
“Someone had Photoshopped the background, so the event poster showed a venue that was never booked.”
Recognize the critical figurative use.
Meaning
Cover, remove, or conceal something, literally or figuratively.
Tone & use
The object after “over” is what is hidden. It can refer to a mark on a wall or to information someone wants forgotten.
Example
“The company tried to airbrush over the safety complaints, but former employees kept asking questions.”
Meaning
Change the public account of the past by hiding or removing unpleasant facts.
Tone & use
A critical expression often used about leaders, institutions, or media accounts. It is stronger than simply correcting an error.
Example
“The museum added the missing letters to its exhibit instead of airbrushing the controversy from its history.”
Knowledge check
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