A brooch is a decorative pin worn on clothing, often on the chest or shoulder. It can be simple or very fancy, sometimes made with precious metals and stones.
From Middle English “broche” meaning “ornamental pin,” from Old French “broche,” meaning “spike” or “pointed tool.” It is related to the word “broach,” which also comes from the idea of a sharp point.
The silent ‘o’ in “brooch” hides its sharp past: it began as a word for a spike. What we think of as jewelry started as a practical way to fasten clothes with a little metal spear.
Brooches have often been coded as feminine accessories in modern Western fashion, even though historically they were worn by people of all genders. This reflects broader gendering of jewelry and adornment.
Use “brooch” without assuming the wearer’s gender; simply refer to “a person wearing a brooch” unless gender is contextually important.
["pin","decorative pin"]
Women’s creative work as jewelry designers and artisans has significantly shaped brooch design, though many have gone unnamed in fashion histories.
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