boldness

[ bohld-nis ]

noun

1. lack of hesitation or fear in the face of risk or danger; courage:

   Some members of the LGBTQ community have been murdered because of their boldness in living as their true selves and not as society tried to force them to live.

2. refusal to be held back by the opinion or judgment of others:

   I admire your boldness in standing up on this issue; thank you for your candid words.

3. lack of regard for the rules of propriety or morality; impudence or brazenness:

   In the early 20th century many people were shocked at the boldness and sexual innuendos that emerged in song.

4. the fact or quality of going beyond the usual limits of conventional thought or action; visionary or imaginative character:

   With boldness, leadership, and determination, we are leveraging today's successes into a smarter city for all of our residents.

5. the quality of being visually striking, arresting, flashy, etc.:

   If you are someone who is generally perceived as meek and mild, then a little boldness in your wardrobe and your makeup would revamp your look.

Other Words From

• o·ver·bold·ness noun
• su·per·bold·ness noun
• un·bold·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of boldness¹

bold ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

Just their accessibility, their boldness, their identification challenges.

From Salon

But then one comes along with the boldness to suggest there’s a connection in simply feeling the ache and disappointments of life with others — somehow that’s enough.

From Los Angeles Times

I’m grateful to East West Players not only for the enormous care lavished on the staging, but also for the boldness of its approach.

From Los Angeles Times

There is a separate conversation to be had about whether their boldness should sometimes be adjusted away from home, especially if they are in the lead or have something to protect.

From BBC

By speaking out, they have turned into rebellious women who are condemned for their boldness.

From Salon

Related Words

• bravery
• chutzpah
• courage
• daring
• determination
• fearlessness
• recklessness