besom Definition
- 1a broom made of twigs tied around a stick
- 2a bundle of twigs or a rod used for flogging
Using besom: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "besom" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She swept the floor with a besom.
Example
The thief was given a few strokes with a besom.
Example
He made a besom from the branches of a tree.
besom Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with besom
new management or administration is likely to be more effective in introducing reforms and improvements
Example
The new CEO is making some big changes in the company. You know what they say, new brooms sweep clean.
an experienced person knows how to deal with problems and challenges that a newcomer may not be aware of
Example
The new manager may have some good ideas, but the old broom knows the dirty corners and can help avoid potential problems.
Example
The company tried to sweep the scandal under the carpet, but it eventually became public.
Origins of besom
from Old English 'besma', meaning 'bundle of twigs'
Summary: besom in Brief
A 'besom' [ˈbɪzəm] is a type of broom made of twigs tied around a stick. It is also used as a bundle of twigs or a rod for flogging. The phrase 'new brooms sweep clean' refers to the effectiveness of new management, while 'old broom knows the dirty corners' means an experienced person knows how to deal with problems. 'Sweep something under the carpet/besom' means to hide or ignore something unpleasant.
