# Brussels

/ˈbɹəsəɫz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brussels
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the city

noun · CEFR B1

the capital city of Belgium.

For teachers: the capital city of Belgium and the administrative centre of the Brussels-Capital Region.

- We spent three days in Brussels visiting the famous central square.
- Brussels serves as a major international hub, housing the headquarters of both NATO and the European Commission within its metropolitan area.

### 2. the European Union

noun · CEFR B2

the government and administration of the European Union.

For teachers: a metonym for the administrative apparatus and political leadership of the European Union.

- The new environmental laws were decided by Brussels last month.
- National governments often debate how much regulatory power should be handed over to Brussels regarding trade and migration policies.

### 3. Brussels sprout

noun · CEFR B1

a small, round, green vegetable that looks like a tiny cabbage.

For teachers: a small, green, leafy vegetable of the Gemmifera cultivar group of cabbages, typically eaten cooked.

- Many children dislike eating Brussels sprouts because they can taste slightly bitter.
- The chef roasted the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar and pancetta to balance their natural earthiness.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form 'Brussels sprouts'.

## Examples

- We are taking a train to Brussels tomorrow morning.
- Many international organizations have their headquarters in Brussels because of its central location in Europe.
- Political commentators often use the city's name to refer to the European Commission, as in the phrase 'Brussels has issued a new directive on environmental standards'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.