combed
word · lemma: comb
Definition
Used as the past tense and past participle of 'comb', it means to have used a comb to arrange or untangle hair or another material. It can also mean searching or going through something carefully.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both literal (hair, fur, fibers) and figurative ("combed the area for clues") contexts. Usually refers to careful or thorough actions. Typical collocations: 'combed hair', 'combed the streets'. Do not confuse with 'brushed' (which generally refers just to using a brush, especially for teeth or clothing).
Example Sentences
We combed the beach for shells.
basic
She combed her hair before school.
basic
He combed the dog's fur gently.
basic
His hair was neatly combed for the photograph.
natural
They combed through stacks of papers to find the missing letter.
natural
I thought I had combed every inch of my room, but my keys were still missing.
natural