BRASS

noun Etymology: Middle English bras, from Old English bræs; akin to Middle Low German bras metal Date: before 12th century an alloy consisting essentially of copper and zinc in variable proportions, 2. the ~ instruments of an orchestra or band, a usually ~ memorial tablet, bright metal fittings, utensils, or ornaments, empty cartridge shells, brazen self-assurance ; gall , 4. singular or plural in construction high-ranking members of the military, persons in high positions (as in a business or the government), ~ adjective