Main Entry:

¹brand

Pronunciation:

\ˈbrand\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, torch, sword, from Old English; akin to Old English bærnan to burn

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: a charred piece of wood b: firebrand 1 c: something (as lightning) that resembles a firebrand2: sword3 a (1): a mark made by burning with a hot iron to attest manufacture or quality or to designate ownership (2): a printed mark made for similar purposes : trademark b (1): a mark put on criminals with a hot iron (2): a mark of disgrace : stigma <the brand of poverty>4 a: a class of goods identified by name as the product of a single firm or manufacturer : make b: a characteristic or distinctive kind <a lively brand of theater> c: brand name 25: a tool used to produce a brand