Brawn is a word that is often used to describe physical strength and muscular power. It is a term that has been used for centuries to describe people who possess a great deal of physical strength and stamina. In this article, we will explore the various definitions and meanings of brawn, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Brawn is defined as physical strength and muscular power. It is also used to describe a person who possesses a great deal of physical strength and stamina. Additionally, brawn can refer to the meat from a pig’s or calf’s head that has been boiled and pressed into a loaf.
Origin
The word brawn has its roots in Old English. It is derived from the word brægen, which means “brain.” In Middle English, the word brawn was used to describe the flesh of any animal, but by the 16th century, it had come to mean specifically the flesh of a pig’s or calf’s head.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, brawn is defined as “physical strength, muscular power, or a muscular person.” Merriam-Webster defines brawn as “muscular strength or development” and also mentions the culinary definition of the word.
Associations
Brawn is often associated with physical strength, athleticism, and masculinity. It is also associated with the culinary dish made from boiled and pressed pig’s or calf’s head.
Synonyms
Synonyms for brawn include strength, power, muscle, might, and vigor.
Antonyms
Antonyms for brawn include weakness, frailty, and feebleness.
The same root words
The word brægen, from which brawn is derived, is also the root for the word brain.
Example Sentences
- He was a man of great brawn and could lift weights that others could only dream of.
- The brawn of the football team was impressive, and they dominated the field.
- She made a delicious brawn loaf for the party.
- Despite his brawn, he was a gentle giant who loved to read and write poetry.