A brushstroke is a single mark or stroke made by a paintbrush on a surface, such as canvas or paper. It refers to the visible trace left behind when a painter uses a brush to apply paint onto a surface, creating texture and visual interest in an artwork. Brushstrokes can vary in thickness, length, and direction, depending on the artist's technique and style. In general usage, "brushstroke" may also refer to the overall appearance or effect of something, as if it were painted with brushstrokes.