brazen
UK[ˈbreɪzn]US[ˈbreɪzn]
adj
made of or resembling brass in color or strength
adj
shameless and without respect; bold and impudent
v
to face a difficult situation with bold and shameless confidence
Etymology
the word "brazen" originates from the old english "bræsen," meaning "made of brass," which itself comes from "bræs" (brass). this connection to the metal brass, known for its hardness and yellowish color, provided the foundation for its figurative meanings. the sense of "shameless" or "impudent" evolved in the late 16th century, metaphorically extending from the idea of something being as hard and unfeeling as metal, thus impervious to shame or embarrassment. the verb form, meaning to behave boldly or defiantly, developed from this adjective in the 16th century.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived from a single root.
Examples
the brazen statue gleamed in the sunlight.
she told a brazen lie right to his face.
he brazened out the scandal, refusing to resign.