valor
Americannoun
Related Words
See courage.
Etymology
Origin of valor
1350–1400; Middle English valo ( u ) r < Anglo-French; Middle French valeur < Late Latin valōr-, stem of valor worth, equivalent to Latin val ( ēre ) to be of worth + -or -or 1
Explanation
Valor is honor plus dignity. It’s gallant bravery and strength, especially on the battlefield or in the face of danger. Saint George displayed valor when he finally slayed the dragon. It’s a trait fit for a hero. Valor comes from the Latin valorem for “strength, moral worth,” with the sense of “courage” added later. Valor is often displayed in the face of something designed to crush it, like a battle in a war, and it is often rewarded with the conferring of a medal. Valor is a word associated with war heroes and knights of yore, but anyone who faces death and doesn’t look away displays valor.
Vocabulary lists containing valor
Veterans Day Vocabulary
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"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 1–7
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The Things They Carried
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As a marine, Mueller earned a Bronze Star for valor and a Purple Heart for wounds received in combat.
From Barron's • Mar. 21, 2026
Mr. Le Tellier became obsessed with excavating the past of this unknown man, an inquiry that poignantly revives the valor and tragedy of World War II.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025
“This is my journey, and I want to thank the board for your trust, your confidence, and for your valor and courage in doing right by our community through the service that we collectively provide.”
From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 17, 2025
Hitler was a former frontline soldier, twice wounded and decorated for valor.
From Salon • Aug. 5, 2024
"No one doubts your valor, Ser Loras, but we are about justice here, and what you seek is vengeance."
From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
