Brass
/bræs/noun
A yellow alloy of copper and zinc used for various decorative and practical applications.
Did you know?In ancient alchemy, brass was often considered a mystical metal, symbolizing the transformation of base materials into something precious, reflecting deeper esoteric principles.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhrā̯s
“to burn or glow, often linked to the bright color of metals”
Old English
Old English
bræsen
“made of brass, associated with brightness and strength”
Middle English
Middle English
brasse
“an alloy of copper and zinc, known for its decorative qualities”
15th Century
English
brass
“the term solidified to describe the alloy, often used in crafting weaponry and ornaments”
Modern English
English
brass
“the contemporary term for the alloy, encompassing its various industrial and artistic uses”