moxie

[ mok-see ]

noun

, Slang.

1. courageous spirit and determination; perseverance:

   The pitcher showed his moxie in Sunday’s win.

2. vigor; verve; pep.
3. skill; know-how.

moxie

/ ˈmɒksɪ /

noun

1. slang.
   courage, nerve, or vigour

Word History and Origins

Origin of moxie¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1925–30; after Moxie, a trademark (name of a soft drink)

Word History and Origins

Origin of moxie¹

from the trademark Moxie, a soft drink

Example Sentences

“I want to see, does this guy have the moxie, the leadership?” said Bob Torrez, a steel company executive who lives in Orange.

From Los Angeles Times

Only in this Game 6, the Sixers showed some moxie.

From Seattle Times

But the show itself is full of moxie — not defiant but confident that yes, it can blend “Gilmore Girls” with “The Leftovers.”

From New York Times

The character’s motivations don’t gel and no amount of Swank moxie can make it work.

From Los Angeles Times

The character’s motivations don’t jell, and no amount of Swank moxie can make it work.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• boldness
• fearlessness
• fortitude
• grit
• guts
• spunk
• stamina
• tenacity
• toughness