Bronze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bronze
[brÉ’nz ]
Definitions
medal
A medal made of bronze, awarded for various achievements.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bronze |
Often used when referring to the material or describing an object made from it. It can also signify a third place finish in sports.
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| medal |
Primarily used in the context of sports or military to represent a physical object given as a prize or honor.
|
| award |
Used in a broad context to signify something given as recognition for an achievement, which can be in any field like sports, academics, or arts. It does not specify the physical form of the recognition.
|
| trophy |
Refers to a large, often elaborate object given as a prize, commonly in sports and sometimes in other competitive activities.
|
Examples of usage
- She won a bronze in the Olympics.
- He proudly wore his bronze around his neck.
metal
A yellowish-brown alloy of copper with up to one-third tin.
Examples of usage
- The statue was made of bronze.
- Bronze is often used in sculptures.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'bronze' comes from the Latin word 'bronzium' and the Germanic word 'brona', reflecting its widespread use in ancient cultures.
- The Bronze Age marks a significant era in human history, beginning around 3300 BCE in the Near East, when people first began to use the metal extensively.
- Artifacts made of bronze have been discovered in ancient civilizations, indicating its importance for tools, weapons, and decorative items.
Art and Sculpture
- Bronze has been favored by artists since ancient times due to its strength and ability to create intricate details in sculptures.
- Famous statues like the 'Discobolus' (the Discus Thrower) and 'David' by Donatello were cast in bronze, showcasing the material's artistic potential.
- The patina that develops on bronze over time can change its appearance, often giving sculptures a beautiful green or blue hue due to corrosion.
Technology and Industry
- Bronze is an important alloy that not only includes copper and tin but can also incorporate other metals for enhanced properties, such as aluminum for additional strength.
- Historically, bronze was crucial for the development of tools and weapons, leading to significant advancements in technology during the Bronze Age.
- Today, bronze is still used in various applications, including musical instruments like cymbals and bells, due to its unique acoustic properties.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, bronze symbolizes wealth and power, as it was traditionally used for creating statues and trophies to honor achievements.
- Bronze medals are awarded in competitions, such as the Olympics, representing third place and honoring exceptional achievement.
- Many ancient coins were made from bronze, underscoring its importance as a valuable material in commerce and trade.
Science
- The process of creating bronze through smelting and alloying marks an important development in metallurgical science.
- Bronze exhibits resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for applications in marine environments, such as ship fittings and propellers.
- Understanding the properties of bronze has contributed to advancements in materials science, focusing on alloy compositions for improved durability.
Origin of 'bronze'
The word 'bronze' originated from the Middle English word 'brunet' which came from the Old French word 'brun' meaning brown. Bronze has been used for thousands of years in various cultures for making tools, weapons, and art. It became particularly popular during the Bronze Age.