In British slang, the term 'brick' carries a few distinct meanings, most commonly referring to a reliable person, and also notably appearing within the verb phrase "brick it" to describe intense fear.
A Reliable Person: "He's a Brick"
One common use of "a brick" in British slang is to describe a person who is reliable, trustworthy, and generally a good, supportive individual. This usage emphasizes their steadfast nature, much like the solid foundation a brick provides in construction.
Usage and Examples:
- Meaning: Someone who is very helpful, dependable, and stands by you.
- Context: Often used in an appreciative or complimentary way.
Examples:
- "Thanks for helping me move, you're a brick!" (Meaning: You're a great help, very dependable.)
- "When I was going through a tough time, Sarah was an absolute brick." (Meaning: Sarah was incredibly supportive and reliable.)
To Be Very Frightened: "Bricking It"
While "a brick" refers to a person, the word "brick" is also central to the well-known British slang phrase "brick it" or "bricking it." This idiom describes a state of intense fear.
Understanding "Bricking It"
- Meaning: To be very frightened or extremely nervous. This phrase implies a strong physical reaction to fear.
- Origin (Colloquial): The phrase is thought to evoke the involuntary bowel or bladder movements that can occur when someone is extremely scared, likening the sensation to passing a brick or "shitting bricks."
Examples:
- "I was bricking it before my driving test." (Meaning: I was extremely nervous.)
- "He was bricking it when he had to speak in front of the whole school." (Meaning: He was very frightened.)
- "The roller coaster was so fast, I was absolutely bricking it." (Meaning: I was terrified.)
Summary Table of "Brick" in British Slang
| Slang Usage | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A brick (person) | A reliable, dependable person | "You were a real brick for staying with me." |
| Brick it / Bricking it | To be very frightened/nervous | "I'm bricking it about the interview tomorrow." |
These distinct meanings showcase the versatility of the word "brick" within British colloquial language. For general definitions of words and phrases, you can consult a reputable dictionary like Collins Dictionary.
