courage

[ kur-ij, kuhr- ]

noun

1. the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.

   Synonyms: intrepidity, dauntlessness, fearlessness, spirit, pluck

   Antonyms: cowardice

2. Obsolete. the heart as the source of emotion.

courage

/ ˈkʌrɪdʒ /

noun

1. the power or quality of dealing with or facing danger, fear, pain, etc
2. the courage of one's convictions
   the confidence to act in accordance with one's beliefs
3. take one's courage in both hands
   to nerve oneself to perform an action
4. obsolete.
   mind; disposition; spirit

Word History and Origins

Origin of courage¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English corage, from Old French, equivalent to cuer “heart” (from Latin cor; heart ) + -age -age

Word History and Origins

Origin of courage¹

C13: from Old French corage, from cuer heart, from Latin cor

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. have the courage of one's convictions, to act in accordance with one's beliefs, especially in spite of criticism.

More idioms and phrases containing courage

In addition to the idiom beginning with courage , also see Dutch courage ; pluck up (one's courage) .

Synonym Study

Courage, bravery, valor, bravado refer to qualities of spirit and conduct. Courage permits one to face extreme dangers and difficulties without fear: to take (or lose) courage. Bravery implies true courage with daring and an intrepid boldness: bravery in a battle. Valor implies heroic courage: valor in fighting for the right. Bravado is now usually a boastful and ostentatious pretense of courage or bravery: empty bravado.

Example Sentences

"Because I’ve heard so many others talking about fighting back, I find myself more in that spirit now. I stay involved with groups that are committed to fighting back. This sustains me and has given me courage and hope."

From Salon

This sustains me and has given me courage and hope.

From Salon

"The question is: Will he be a yes man to Donald Trump or will he behave professionally and with courage the way he did when he was in uniform?" added Bolton, who has grown critical of the president-elect.

From BBC

“I want to acknowledge the courage of the young victim and his decision to report the abuse.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Edelstam Prize, awarded for exceptional courage in defending human rights, will be presented on 19 November in Stockholm.

From BBC

Related Words

• audacity
• bravery
• daring
• determination
• endurance
• fearlessness
• firmness
• fortitude
• gallantry
• grit
• heroism
• prowess
• spirit
• spunk
• tenacity
• valor