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Brass Definition, Uses & Pronunciation Guide (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：metal alloy (brass)
brass
/bræs/
n.
A shiny, gold-colored metal that is a mix of copper and zinc. It's strong, doesn't rust easily, and is often used to make things like doorknobs and decorations.
metal alloy
➕
/ˈmɛtl ˈælɔɪ/
n.
A yellowish metal alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, valued for its durability, malleability, and resistance to corrosion, often used for hardware, fixtures, and decorative items.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'bræs', possibly related to a word for copper. Evolved to denote the specific copper-zinc alloy.
💡 Mnemonic
Brave soldiers play shiny instruments. 'Brass' sounds bold and bright, like the metal and the music.
📖 Example
The old door had a beautiful, polished brass knocker that shone in the sunlight.
The antique door featured an attractive, well-maintained brass knocker that gleamed under the sun.
🔗 Collocations
solid brass – made entirely of brass, not plated
brass fittings – components like valves or handles made of brass
brass plating – a thin layer of brass applied to another metal's surface
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
plastic (n.) – A synthetic material, contrasting with brass in terms of origin (organic vs. metallic) and typical applications.
🌱 Derivatives
brassy (adj.) – resembling brass in color or sound; shamelessly bold or loud
📖 Cultural Story
Its name has ancient roots, evolving to describe the durable alloy. Historically significant for military bugles and ornate decorations, embodying both martial authority and aesthetic value.
Meaning 2：musical instruments (brass)
brass
/bræs/
n.
The group of musical instruments, like trumpets and trombones, that are made of metal and you play by buzzing your lips into a mouthpiece. They make loud, powerful sounds.
musical instruments
➕
/ˈmjuːzɪkəl ˈɪnstrəmənts/
n.
A family of musical instruments typically made of brass or other metal, played by vibrating the lips against a cup-shaped mouthpiece to produce sound, including trumpets, trombones, and tubas.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The sound of the brass section in the orchestra was so powerful it gave me goosebumps.
The powerful performance by the brass instruments in the orchestra was deeply moving.
🔗 Collocations
brass band – a musical ensemble consisting primarily of brass instruments, often with percussion
brass section – the group of brass instrument players in an orchestra or band
brass quintet – a chamber music group composed of five brass players
🔄 Synonyms
wind instruments (n.) – A broader category of instruments played by blowing air, which includes woodwinds like flutes and clarinets in addition to brass.
🚫 Antonyms
strings (n.) – The section of an orchestra comprising instruments like violins and cellos, which produce sound by vibrating strings.
percussion (n.) – Instruments that are struck or shaken to produce sound, such as drums or cymbals.
Meaning 3：decorative objects (brass)
brass
/bræs/
n.
Decorative or useful objects made from brass, especially old or antique ones like candlesticks, vases, or statues.
decorative objects
➕
/ˈdɛkərətɪv ˈɒbdʒɪkts/
n.
Objects, especially antique or collectible items, crafted from brass, valued for their decorative appeal, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The antique shop was full of beautiful old brass, from intricate lamps to heavy bookends.
The vintage store displayed an array of attractive antique brass items, including detailed lamps and sturdy bookends.
🔗 Collocations
polished brass – brass objects that have been cleaned and buffed to a shine
antique brass – old brass items valued for their age and historical character
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
modern pieces (n.) – Contemporary decorative items, contrasting with antique brass in style and era.
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