bravery

[ brey-vuh-ree, breyv-ree ]

noun

, plural brav·er·ies.

1. brave spirit or conduct; courage; valor.

   Synonyms: boldness, fearlessness, intrepidity, spunk, mettle, nerve, audacity, spirit, pluck, heroism, prowess, daring

   Antonyms: cowardice

2. showiness; splendor; magnificence.

Other Words From

• over·braver·y noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bravery¹

First recorded in 1540–50; probably from Italian braveria; equivalent to brave + -ery

Synonym Study

See courage.

Example Sentences

"There's so much for us to learn from the bravery and courage of these Afghan women," says Malala.

From BBC

PC Coates said without the other officer's bravery she could have lost her arm.

From BBC

In the quest for fragments of solace, it’s also perhaps understandable that when tales of bravery are found, they are celebrated unashamedly.

From BBC

George had called for "bravery" earlier in the week.

From BBC

The way they played out from the back, with such bravery and confidence, was impressive and Liverpool had to dig very deep to recover from 1-0 down and beat them.

From BBC

Related Words

• courage
• daring
• fearlessness
• fortitude
• gallantry
• grit
• heroism
• mettle
• spirit
• spunk
• valor