Search results for 'brass':

brass noun (plural brasses or when treated as plural in collective senses 3 and 6 brass) 1 an alloy of copper and zinc, which is strong and ductile, resistant to corrosion, and suitable for casting, used to make electrical fittings, screws, buttons, buckles, etc. 2 an ornament, tool or other object made of brass, or such objects collectively • polish the brass once a month. See also brazier². 3 (singular or plural noun) a wind instruments made of brass, such as the trumpet and horn; b the people who play brass instruments in an orchestra. 4 a piece of flat brass with a figure, design or name, etc on it, usually found in a church, in memory of someone who has died. 5 (also horse brass) a small flat brass ornament with a design on it, for a horse's harness. 6 (usually top brass or the brass) colloq people in authority or of high military rank collectively. See also brass hat. 7 (especially the brass or the brass neck) colloq over-confidence or effrontery; nerve • had the brass neck to send me the bill. 8 colloq, especially N Eng money; cash. adj made of brass. brassed off Brit slang fed up; annoyed.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon bræs.