brawn

[ brawn ]

noun

1. strong, well-developed muscles.
2. muscular strength.

   Synonyms: sturdiness, robustness, brawniness, power, might, muscle

3. Chiefly British.
   1. a boar's or swine's flesh, especially when boiled and pickled.
   2. headcheese.

brawn

/ brɔːn /

noun

1. strong well-developed muscles
2. physical strength, esp as opposed to intelligence
3. a seasoned jellied loaf made from the head and sometimes the feet of a pig or calf

Word History and Origins

Origin of brawn¹

1275–1325; Middle English brawne < Old French braon slice of flesh ( Provençal bradon ) < Germanic; compare German Braten joint of meat, akin to Old English brǣd flesh

Word History and Origins

Origin of brawn¹

C14: from Old French braon slice of meat, of Germanic origin; compare Old High German brāto , Old English brǣd flesh

Example Sentences

Even more important than the brawn though is the brain.

From BBC

Above all, Harris had to demonstrate — as a woman, and a slightly built one, at that — that she possesses the brawn and backbone to lead the country.

From Los Angeles Times

A West Coast power, known for its flash, paired with a conference known for its bulk and corn-fed brawn.

From Los Angeles Times

To me, the fundamental problem is the struggle of men to adapt to a world in which brawn matters less than brains, education and emotional intelligence.

From Seattle Times

She’s the brains and brawn behind Bill’s Honey, sold at local stores.

From Seattle Times