Definition
To be completely full of something, or to overflow with it. Often used to describe feelings or containers that are at their limit.
Example
Her eyes brimmed with tears when she heard the news.
Show translation
Her eyes were completely full of tears when she heard the news.
Etymology
From Middle English *brimme*, meaning the edge or rim of a vessel, related to Old Norse *barmr* (rim, brim) and Low German *brem* (border, edge). By the 16th century it extended from the physical edge of a cup to the idea of being completely full — "filled to the brim."
Cultural note
The phrase "brimming with confidence" (or joy, excitement, ideas) is extremely common in everyday English journalism and speech. Note that *brim* also functions as a noun — the flat edge of a hat (e.g., "a wide-brimmed hat") — so context makes clear which sense is meant.