brass
UK[brɑːs]US[bræs]
n
a yellow metal made from copper and zinc
n
the group of people holding the most important positions, especially in the military or a company
n
musical instruments made of metal, such as trumpets or trombones, or the players of these instruments
Etymology
the word 'brass' entered modern english directly from old english 'bræs', which referred to an alloy of copper. its origins prior to old english are obscure, with no clear proto-indo-european root identified. the term's journey is one of a material name passing through germanic languages, retaining its core meaning of a copper-based alloy. over time, its application expanded metaphorically, first to military insignia made of the metal, then to high-ranking officers, and finally to any group in a position of authority, while also becoming the collective term for certain musical instruments.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from old english 'bræs' meaning 'brass, bronze'. its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be related to a proto-germanic root.
Examples
the door handle was made of polished brass.
the company brass decided to restructure the department.
the brass section played with great power and clarity.