The term 'SHARP BRISTLE' can be broken down into two words, 'SHARP' and 'BRISTLE'. The word 'SHARP' is an adjective that describes something that has a thin, pointed edge or tip. The word 'BRISTLE' is a noun that refers to a stiff, coarse hair or fiber. Together, the term 'SHARP BRISTLE' can refer to a stiff, coarse hair or fiber with a thin, pointed edge or tip. This could be used to describe the hairs of a brush or a type of material used for scrubbing. The crossword solution for this term is 'BARB', which is a noun that refers to a SHARP projection from a surface, such as a fishhook or a barbwire fence.