brazen

Brazen is an English adjective with two primary senses. The original sense describes something made of brass or brass-colored. In modern usage, the word most often describes boldness or shameless audacity in actions, speech, or behavior, sometimes with a connotation of defiance or irreverence.

Etymology and development: The word derives from Old English bræsen, meaning brass. Over time the material sense extended figuratively to describe qualities of the metal—hard, unyielding, or gleaming in a way that suggested lack of shame. The figurative sense of shameless boldness emerged in English in the early modern period and has persisted in contemporary usage.

Usage and nuance: Brazen typically carries a negative or critical tone, applied to acts seen as impudent or reckless. It can describe a lie told with apparent confidence, a policy and stance maintained despite opposition, or a blatant disregard for rules. The adverbial form is brazenly, and the related noun forms include brazenness or, less commonly, brazenness. The phrase brazen out is used to indicate enduring a difficult situation with outward calm or stubborn audacity.

Related terms and contrasts: Brazen is closely associated with synonyms such as audacious, impudent, and shameless, while antonyms include modest, discreet, and prudent. A derived term, brazen-faced, is older and less common in modern usage but communicates a similarly blunt demeanor. The term should be chosen with attention to tone, as brazen often signals disapproval.