Brazened - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

showing boldness

To brazened means to face an embarrassing or difficult situation with confidence and without shame. It suggests a certain audacity in behavior, often characterized by a lack of restraint. The term often implies that one is acting in a way that disregards conventions or societal expectations. Essentially, it reflects an attitude of boldness even in the face of potential criticism or consequences.

Synonyms

audacious, bold, brave, unashamed.

Examples of usage

She brazened out the criticism from her peers.
He brazened his way through the awkward conversation.
Despite the mistakes, she brazened it and continued to lead the meeting.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, characters who display brazen traits often play the role of the hero or the anti-hero, challenging norms and conventions.
Shakespeare's characters, such as Lady Macbeth, exhibit brazen qualities as they defy moral boundaries in pursuit of power.
In modern novels, brazen protagonists often push against societal expectations, making them memorable and relatable.

Psychology

Research shows that people who exhibit brazen behavior may have higher levels of confidence, often leading to more successful outcomes in social situations.
Brazen individuals tend to cope with stress more effectively, as they approach challenges with a fearless mindset.
The concept of 'bravery' is often associated with taking risks, revealing that those who act brazenly may be more likely to step outside of their comfort zones.

Pop Culture

The term has appeared in various music lyrics to describe characters who live unapologetically and boldly.
In films, brazen characters are often depicted as rebels who fight against conformity, making them memorable for audiences.
Social media influencers sometimes embrace brazen personas to build their brands, showcasing confidence as a key trait for engaging audiences.

History

Historically, brazen behavior has been both revered and condemned, with figures like Joan of Arc celebrated for their boldness and defiance.
During the Enlightenment, individuals who challenged societal norms were often labeled as brazen, marking a turning point in cultural discourse.
In the 1920s, women who dressed and behaved in unconventional ways were often called 'brazen,' reflecting the changing attitudes towards gender roles.

Origin of 'brazened'

Main points about word origin

The word 'brazen' comes from 'brass,' an alloy known for its shiny and bold appearance.
Originally, to 'braze' meant to work with bronze, which symbolizes toughness and resilience, much like the characteristics of brazen behavior.
In older English, the term was often associated with the idea of being loud or noisy, akin to the brashness of brass.

The word 'brazened' originates from the adjective 'brazen', which means made of brass or resembling brass in color. The term has its roots in the Old English 'bræs', meaning brass, and has evolved over time to take on a metaphorical meaning related to boldness and impudence. Initially used to describe something that is literally of brass, it gradually began to refer to people who exhibited a similar lack of shame or boldness in their actions. This figurative use became more prominent in the 19th century. The evolution from a material descriptor to one that describes forthright behavior encapsulates a cultural shift towards valuing boldness and confidence in various social contexts.

Brazened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations