English Dictionary
Definition of “mettle”
mettle (ˈmɛtəll
)
Word Origin
C16: originally variant spelling of metal
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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courage,
spirit,
resolution,
resolve,
life,
heart,
fire,
balls,
bottle,
nerve,
daring,
guts,
pluck,
grit,
bravery,
fortitude,
vigour,
boldness,
gallantry,
ardour,
valour,
spunk,
indomitability,
hardihood,
gameness,
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character,
quality,
nature,
make-up,
stamp,
temper,
kidney,
temperament,
calibre,
disposition,
Usage examples
Rhodry was frankly disappointed that the boy had proved himself so clumsy; he had mettle , did young Jahdo, in his solid little way.
Kerr, Katharine, A Time of War (1993)The Ruias should be given more time and support to prove their mettle.
Business Today (2003)During the afternoon of June 4, 1944, he demonstrated his mettle.
Globe and Mail (2003)Sound advice went unheeded, Bracken became first-choice and what followed was enough to test the mettle of the hardest of men.
Sun, News of the World (2000)Northern Ireland, above all else, was to prove the crucible in which the Iron Lady's mettle would be tested.
Jon Snow, SHOOTING HISTORY: A Personal Journey (2004)
