brush discharge

American  

noun

Electricity.

1. a type of corona discharge that takes place between two electrodes at atmospheric pressure, characterized by long, branched, luminous streamers of ionized particles.

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brush discharge British  

noun

1. a slightly luminous electrical discharge between points of high charge density when the charge density is insufficient to cause a spark or around sharp points on a highly charged conductor because of ionization of air molecules in their vicinity

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Etymology

Origin of brush discharge

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

If while the patient is being treated a point electrode is brought towards him he feels the sensation of a wind blowing from that point; this is an electric breeze or brush discharge.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 3 "Electrostatics" to "Engis" by Various

There is, moreover, no improbability of such sounds being occasionally heard, since a somewhat similar phenomenon accompanies the brush discharge of the electric machinery, to which the aurora bears considerable resemblance.

From Meteorology or Weather Explained by M'Pherson, J. G.

It is well settled that atmospheric electricity can and does flow in currents with light, by experiments in relation to the brush discharge, etc.

From The Philosophy of the Weather And a Guide to Its Changes by Butler, Thomas Belden

Suitable electrodes are passed backwards and forwards over the affected parts, a bluish brush discharge taking place between the patient and the electrode.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 2: Ebert to Estremadura by Various

In the latter case a brush discharge is used, and the patient experiences very little physical sensation.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 2: Ebert to Estremadura by Various