This week's theme
Metallic metaphors

This week's words
copperplate
tin god
brass ring
iron curtain
silver lining

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A.Word.A.Day

PRONUNCIATION:

(brass ring)

MEANING:

noun: A prize or an opportunity for a prize, especially a prestigious one.

ETYMOLOGY:

From the former practice of trying to get a brass ring while riding a carousel. Earliest documented use: late 19th century. A brass ring is quite different from a brass-collar.

NOTES:

In earlier times, merry-go-rounds had an added attraction. While the ride was in progress, riders were to try to pick a ring from a dispenser. Whoever managed to get a ring, typically made of brass, could redeem it for a free ride. Now that the popularity of carousels has declined, perhaps they can add the brass ring challenge to roller coasters -- with personal injury lawyers conveniently placed at the end of the ride.

USAGE:

"Imogen Cooper is more about the music than about grasping for the brass ring of stardom."
Rob Hubbard; English Pianist Cooper; Pioneer Press (St. Paul, Minnesota); Mar 4, 2012.

A THOUGHT FOR TODAY: