Brim Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈbrɪm/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A part of a hat or other container that overlaps the top and protrudes beyond the edge of the container; the curved edge of a hat or other container; or the top or edge of a vessel that rises above the rim.

Examples

• The sailor had to adjust the brim of his hat to protect his face from the sun.
• The cup had a wide brim that was prone to getting knocked over.

Synonyms

• Edge
• Rim
• Border

Antonyms

• Center
• Interior
• Deep

Etymology

The word ‘Brim’ has its origins in the Old English word ‘brim’, which means ‘edge’ or ‘curved edge’. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century.

Additional Information

Brim is an important feature of various types of containers, including hats, cups, and vases. It serves as a useful design element, providing additional protection or functionality. The word is also often used in a physical sense, referring to the shape or curvature of a container’s edge.

However, the meaning of Brim can also be figurative. For instance, someone’s life might be “brimming” with excitement or energy, meaning it is full or overflowing with positive experiences.

Brim is also related to the concept of overflow, which is when something exceeds its capacity and spills or overflows. This connection highlights the importance of careful handling and management of Brimmed containers to avoid spillage or accidents.

Brim is often used in combination with other words to create idiomatic expressions, such as “brimful” of something, meaning having a high amount of it. Similarly, the word can be used to describe a feeling of fullness or satisfaction, as in “brimming with happiness.” These idioms and phrases showcase the versatility and depth of the word.

Usage Notes

The word Brim can be used in various contexts to describe physical containers as well as figurative concepts. When writing or speaking, choose the right context and nuance of the word to convey the intended meaning.

Use Brim to describe the curved edge of a container with a rounded top, like a hat or a vase. Use it to describe the edge of a vessel that rises above its rim or when describing the overflow of a container.

The word Brim is often used in idiomatic expressions, so be aware of its figurative implications when describing fullness or satisfaction.

Cultural References

• The word Brim is also prominent in literature. For example, in the novel ‘Wuthering Heights’, the character Catherine Earnshaw is described as having a face “brimming with excitement”.
• Brim is also used in popular songs, like “Brimful of Asha” by Cornershop.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Brimful of something: having a high amount of it.
• Briming with happiness: feeling full of happiness.
• Drink to the brim: to drink all of a cup or glass.
• Full to the brim: completely full, especially to an excessive or overflowing degree.

Related Words or Phrases

• Rim: the edge of a container.
• Edge: the border or line at the side or end of something.
• Border: a line that marks the edge or boundary of an area or object.

Collocations

• hat brim
• cup brim
• vase brim
• container brim

Frequency of Use

The word Brim is a relatively common word in modern language, appearing frequently in various contexts, including literature, music, and everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

The word Brim is often misspelled as “Brimm” or “Breme”, especially in informal writing or when using automated spell-checking tools.