Often shortened to: Brum. an informal name for Birmingham
(sometimes not capital) something that is cheap and flashy, esp imitation jewellery
First recorded in 1675–85; local variant of Birmingham, England (compare Bromwichham, Bromecham (17th century), Middle English Burmingeham ); originally in allusion to counterfeit coins produced there in the 17th century
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
An early work of his, "Brummagem," was performed in PNB's 1978 "Summer Inventions" workshop, but he soured on the company after PNB reneged on a promise to provide live music for the piece.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 24, 2012
Sinkler; and Mr. Sutton says Lady Beauchamp, instead of Lady Beachum; and you all say Birmingham, instead of Brummagem.
From Pencil Sketches or, Outlines of Character and Manners by Leslie, Eliza
Then came out the "Brummagem" feature of the case; showing us how the gold setting that he was preparing—perforating and filing—was to be backed by a blue stone.
From The International Monthly, Volume 5, No. 4, April, 1852 by Various
Choice old silver-ware was exposed side by side with iron saucepans, tin-dippers, and cheap crockery utensils,—variety and incongruity, gold and Brummagem everywhere in juxtaposition.
From Due North or Glimpses of Scandinavia and Russia by Ballou, Maturin Murray
O Brummagem Joseph, my boy, will you halt on Your sturdy, but scarce diplomatical way, And take from an ancient disciple of Walton A few friendly hints about patience and "play"?
From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 93, November 5, 1887 by Various
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
