Main Entry:

brass

Pronunciation:

\ˈbras\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English bras, from Old English bræs; akin to Middle Low German bras metal

Date:

before 12th century

1: an alloy consisting essentially of copper and zinc in variable proportions2 a: the brass instruments of an orchestra or band —often used in plural b: a usually brass memorial tablet c: bright metal fittings, utensils, or ornaments d: empty cartridge shells3: brazen self-assurance : gall4singular or plural in construction a: high-ranking members of the military b: persons in high positions (as in a business or the government)

— brass adjective