Brawn: meaning, definitions and examples

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brawn

 

[ brɔːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

physical strength

Brawn refers to physical strength and muscular power, often in contrast to intelligence or mental abilities. It emphasizes the ability to perform physical tasks that require significant muscle strength and endurance.

Synonyms

might, muscle, power, strength

Examples of usage

  • He relied on his brawn to lift the heavy boxes.
  • The team's brawn was unmatched during the competition.
  • She appreciated his brawn, especially when it came to outdoor activities.
  • Brawn was just as important as strategy in the sports game.
Context #2 | Noun

meat or food

In a culinary context, brawn refers to a jelly made from the flesh of the head of a pig or calf, often served in slices. It is a traditional dish in various cultures, particularly in parts of Europe.

Synonyms

head cheese, pork jelly

Examples of usage

  • The local deli specializes in homemade brawn.
  • She served brawn as an appetizer at the festive gathering.
  • Brawn can be enjoyed cold or hot, depending on preference.
  • Many people consider brawn a delicacy in traditional cuisines.

Translations

Translations of the word "brawn" in other languages:

🇵🇹 musculatura

🇮🇳 शक्ति

🇩🇪 Muskeln

🇮🇩 otot

🇺🇦 м'язи

🇵🇱 mięśnie

🇯🇵 筋肉

🇫🇷 muscle

🇪🇸 músculo

🇹🇷 kas

🇰🇷 근육

🇸🇦 عضلات

🇨🇿 svaly

🇸🇰 svaly

🇨🇳 肌肉

🇸🇮 mišice

🇮🇸 vöðvar

🇰🇿 бұлшықеттер

🇬🇪 კუნთები

🇦🇿 əzələlər

🇲🇽 músculo

Word origin

The word 'brawn' originates from Middle English 'braun', which meant 'muscle' or 'flesh'. It can be traced further back to the Old English word 'brūn', primarily referring to the 'meat' of an animal. Over the centuries, the word evolved in its usage, specifically coming to denote physical strength distinctly from intelligence or skill. In culinary contexts, 'brawn' signifies a product made from cooking and preserving meat, particularly from the heads of animals, where the available flesh and gelatin create a unique composition. This duality of meaning—referring both to strength and a specific type of food—exemplifies how language develops over time, influenced by cultural practices and societal values.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,132, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.