Brazenness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brazenness

[หˆbreษชz(ษ™)nnษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

display of boldness or impudence

Brazenness refers to the audacious and shameless display of boldness or impudence. It is the quality of being bold and defiant, often without regard for consequences or social norms. Brazenness can manifest as a disregard for common courtesy or a lack of shame in one's actions.

Synonyms

audacity, boldness, impudence, shamelessness.

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Word Description / Examples
brazenness

When someone acts with a lack of shame or respect, often crossing social boundaries. It's generally seen as negative.

  • Her brazenness at the meeting shocked everyone.
  • He had the brazenness to lie straight to my face.
audacity

In situations where someone takes bold or daring actions, often surprisingly so. It can be both negative and positive depending on the context.

  • The audacity he showed in challenging the boss was impressive.
  • I couldn't believe her audacity to demand a raise after just one month.
impudence

Characterizes someone who is disrespectful or rude, especially towards authority. This word carries a negative connotation.

  • His impudence towards his teachers often got him into trouble.
  • She was scolded for her impudence during the interview.
boldness

Used to describe someone who is courageous and willing to take risks. It usually has a positive connotation.

  • Her boldness in pursuing her dreams inspired others.
  • He faced the challenge with remarkable boldness.
shamelessness

Describes behavior that shows a lack of shame, often in an unapologetic way. This word is typically used negatively.

  • Their shamelessness in breaking the rules was appalling.
  • I was amazed by his shamelessness in taking credit for someone else's work.

Examples of usage

  • He showed brazenness by interrupting the speaker in the middle of the presentation.
  • Her brazenness in asking for a promotion after only a month on the job surprised her colleagues.
  • The criminal's brazenness in committing the robbery in broad daylight shocked the community.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People with high levels of confidence often engage in behaviors that might be seen as brazen, which can lead to both positive and negative interactions.
  • Research indicates that brazen individuals may be more likely to take risks and pursue opportunities, often thriving in competitive environments.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and literature, characters displaying brazenness often become memorable heroes or anti-heroes, showcasing a fearless attitude.
  • Reality TV often glorifies brazen behavior, as contestants who speak their minds and act without restraint tend to capture more viewer attention.

Literature

  • Brazenness is often a key trait in literary archetypes like the trickster, who boldly challenges norms and expectations.
  • Works like Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' explore themes of audacity in characters whose brave actions lead to significant consequences.

Sociology

  • Cultural perceptions of brazenness can vary; in some societies, boldness is encouraged, while in others, it may be frowned upon.
  • Studies show that brazen women, for instance, are often judged more harshly than their male counterparts in professional settings.

Origin of 'brazenness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'brazenness' comes from the Old English 'brazen,' which means made of brass, suggesting something very shiny and visible.
  • The term evolved in the 16th century to describe not just the metal, but a certain boldness in behavior.

The word 'brazenness' has its origins in the Middle English word 'brasen,' which means 'of brass.' The association with brass, a metal known for its boldness and durability, led to the development of the meaning of audaciousness and shamelessness. Over time, 'brazenness' has come to represent a display of boldness that can be perceived as defiant or impudent.


See also: brazenly.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,446, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.