How Do You Spell BRASS NECK?

Pronunciation: [bɹˈas nˈɛk] (IPA)

The phrase "brass neck" is usually spelled with two s's in "brass", despite the fact that the sound that the letter s represents is voiced as a z in this word. This irregular spelling can be explained by the historical development of the English language. The word "brass" comes from the Old English "bræs", which was pronounced with an unvoiced s sound. Over time, the s became voiced in many cases, but the spelling remained unchanged. Thus, we have the modern spelling of "brass neck" with two s's. [brɑːs nɛk]

BRASS NECK Meaning and Definition

1. The term "brass neck" refers to someone who possesses an audacious or arrogant demeanor, demonstrating a high level of cheekiness or impudence. This expression originates from the idiomatic use of the word "brass" to describe a bold or confident disposition, and "neck" to allude to courage or self-assurance.

   When someone is said to have a brass neck, it implies they possess an unreasonable level of confidence and are undeterred in their audacity, even in situations where others may find it inappropriate or offensive. Such individuals exhibit a remarkable ability to push boundaries, often showing a complete disregard for societal norms or social propriety.

   Someone with a brass neck might display this trait in various situations, such as speaking boldly or making outrageous demands without fear of consequence. They may exhibit a remarkable ability to maintain their composure and charm, even when confronted with criticism or rebuke.

   The use of "brass neck" suggests that the person's audacity is so remarkable that it appears as though their neck is made of brass, metaphorically speaking. It characterizes their behavior as abrasive, assertive, and unfazed by potential repercussions.

   Overall, "brass neck" serves as an idiomatic expression to describe individuals who possess an unabashed level of confidence and audacity, often to the point of being impertinent or overbearing.

Common Misspellings for BRASS NECK

• vrass neck
• nrass neck
• hrass neck
• grass neck
• beass neck
• bdass neck
• bfass neck
• btass neck
• b5ass neck
• b4ass neck
• brzss neck
• brsss neck
• brwss neck
• brqss neck
• braas neck
• brazs neck
• braxs neck
• brads neck
• braes neck
• braws neck

Etymology of BRASS NECK

The expression "brass neck" originated in British English and refers to someone who displays audacity, boldness, or impudence. The phrase combines two separate elements: "brass" and "neck".

1. Brass: In colloquial terms, "brass" has long been associated with toughness, audacity, or impertinence. This usage likely stems from the idea that the metal brass is strong and durable, thus metaphorically representing these qualities.

2. Neck: Referring to someone as having a "neck" has historically been associated with courage or boldness. A strong or thick neck is often associated with physical strength, and attributing such traits to someone's figurative "neck" implies they have the courage or audacity to face challenging situations.

The combination of "brass" and "neck" emphasizes the audacious, daring, or shameless behavior of an individual.

Idioms with the word BRASS NECK

• brass neck/nerve The idiom "brass neck/nerve" refers to someone who has the audacity or confidence to do something bold or cheeky, often without feeling or showing any shame or embarrassment.
• brass neck A definition for the idiom "brass neck" is someone who is shameless, audacious, or impudent in their behavior or actions.

Plural form of BRASS NECK is BRASS NECKS