Top 32 Slang For Bravery – Meaning & Usage

Bravery comes in many forms, and so does the slang that celebrates it. From everyday acts of courage to bold decisions, our team has compiled a list of the most empowering and inspiring slang terms for bravery. Get ready to feel pumped up and motivated as you explore these words that capture the essence of courage and fearlessness.

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1. Guts

This term refers to a person’s bravery or courage in the face of danger or difficulty. It implies a willingness to take risks and face challenges head-on.

For example, someone might say, “You’ve got to have guts to jump out of a plane.”
In a discussion about overcoming fears, a person might share, “I had to gather up my guts to give a presentation in front of a large audience.”
Another might compliment someone’s bravery by saying, “You showed real guts by standing up to that bully.”

2. Valor

Valor is a word used to describe exceptional bravery and courage, especially in battle or war. It implies a willingness to sacrifice oneself for a greater cause or to protect others.

For instance, a soldier might be awarded a medal for valor for their heroic actions on the battlefield.
In a discussion about heroic figures, someone might mention, “Joan of Arc demonstrated incredible valor in leading the French army.”
Another might say, “The firefighters showed tremendous valor in rescuing people from the burning building.”

3. Nerve

Nerve refers to the ability to remain calm and confident in challenging or high-pressure situations. It implies a sense of boldness and fearlessness.

For example, a person might say, “You’ve got a lot of nerve to confront your boss about that.”
In a discussion about public speaking, someone might advise, “You just have to have the nerve to get up on stage and speak.”
Another might compliment someone’s audacity by saying, “I admire your nerve for taking on such a difficult task.”

4. Backbone

Backbone is a term used to describe someone’s strength of character and resilience in the face of adversity. It implies a firmness and determination to stand up for one’s beliefs.

For instance, a person might say, “She has a strong backbone and never backs down from a challenge.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might mention, “A good leader needs to have a backbone and make tough decisions.”
Another might praise someone’s unwavering commitment by saying, “He showed real backbone by sticking to his principles.”

5. Spunk

Spunk refers to a lively and spirited attitude, especially in the face of difficulty or adversity. It implies a sense of determination and resilience.

For example, a person might say, “She’s got a lot of spunk and never gives up.”
In a discussion about overcoming obstacles, someone might share, “I faced the challenge with spunk and refused to let it bring me down.”
Another might compliment someone’s energetic approach by saying, “I love your spunk and enthusiasm for life.”

6. Mettle

This term refers to a person’s ability to cope with difficult situations or face challenges with bravery and resolve.

For example, someone might say, “She showed her mettle by standing up to the bullies.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team displayed their mettle by making a comeback in the final minutes.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience, “It’s important to believe in yourself and show your mettle in the face of adversity.”

7. Pluck

Pluck refers to showing bravery, determination, and resourcefulness in the face of adversity or difficult circumstances.

For instance, someone might say, “She had the pluck to start her own business despite the risks.”
In a story about a hero, a narrator might describe their actions as, “With pluck and ingenuity, they saved the day.”
A teacher might praise a student, “I’m proud of your pluck in tackling such a challenging project.”

8. Sand

Sand is a slang term used to describe bravery, toughness, or resilience in the face of danger or difficult situations.

For example, someone might say, “He’s got a lot of sand to take on that risky adventure.”
In a war movie, a soldier might be described as, “Showing true sand in the heat of battle.”
A coach might motivate their team, “We need to dig deep and show our sand to win this game.”

9. Grit

Grit refers to a combination of determination, courage, and perseverance in the face of challenges or adversity.

For instance, someone might say, “She has the grit to overcome any obstacle.”
In a discussion about successful people, someone might say, “Grit is often the key factor in achieving long-term success.”
A teacher might encourage their students, “Developing grit is essential for achieving your goals.”

10. Bravado

Bravado refers to a bold and confident display of bravery or courage, often intended to impress or intimidate others.

For example, someone might say, “His bravado masks his true insecurities.”
In a story about a hero, a narrator might describe their actions as, “With a mix of bravado and skill, they faced their enemies.”
A critic might comment, “His performance was all bravado, lacking any real substance.”

11. Moxy

Moxy is a slang term used to describe someone who has a lot of courage or determination. It implies that the person is bold and unafraid to take risks.

For example, “She had the moxy to quit her job and start her own business.”
A person might say, “You need to have moxy if you want to succeed in this industry.”
Another might comment, “I admire her moxy for speaking up and standing her ground.”

12. Chutzpah

Chutzpah is a Yiddish term that refers to audacity or nerve. It describes someone who has the confidence and boldness to do something, even in the face of adversity or criticism.

For instance, “He had the chutzpah to ask for a raise during a company-wide pay freeze.”
A person might say, “You’ve got to have chutzpah to pull off a stunt like that.”
Another might comment, “I can’t believe she had the chutzpah to say that to her boss.”

13. Cojones

Cojones is a Spanish slang term that literally translates to “testicles.” However, it is commonly used in English to refer to someone’s boldness or bravery.

For example, “He had the cojones to confront the bully.”
A person might say, “You need cojones to jump out of a plane.”
Another might comment, “She showed her cojones by standing up to the politician.”

14. Intrepidity

Intrepidity is a formal term that describes fearlessness or bravery. It implies that someone is not easily intimidated and is willing to face danger or hardship without hesitation.

For instance, “The firefighter showed incredible intrepidity when rescuing the trapped victims.”
A person might say, “His intrepidity in the face of danger is admirable.”
Another might comment, “She faced her fears with intrepidity and overcame them.”

15. Dauntlessness

Dauntlessness is a formal term that describes fearlessness or courage. It suggests that someone is not easily discouraged or intimidated, and is willing to take on challenges without hesitation.

For example, “Her dauntlessness in pursuing her dreams is inspiring.”
A person might say, “His dauntlessness in the face of adversity is commendable.”
Another might comment, “She showed dauntlessness by standing up for what she believed in.”

16. Daring

Daring refers to the act of being bold and courageous in the face of danger or risk. It implies a willingness to take on challenges and push boundaries.

For example, a person might be described as daring for attempting a dangerous stunt.
In a conversation about adventure sports, someone might say, “That was a daring move!”
A character in a book might be praised for their daring actions in a difficult situation.

17. Fearlessness

Fearlessness is the state of being without fear or the ability to overcome fear. It is the quality of facing danger or difficulty without hesitation or anxiety.

For instance, a firefighter running into a burning building to save lives is often described as fearless.
In a discussion about extreme sports, someone might say, “You need a certain level of fearlessness to participate in activities like skydiving.”
A person might be admired for their fearlessness in standing up for what they believe in.

18. Fortitude

Fortitude refers to the strength of mind and resilience in the face of adversity or difficulty. It is the ability to endure and persevere through challenging situations.

For example, a person who remains calm and composed during a crisis is said to have fortitude.
In a conversation about overcoming obstacles, someone might say, “It takes fortitude to keep going when things get tough.”
A character in a movie might be praised for their fortitude in the face of danger.

19. Heroism

Heroism is the act of displaying great courage, bravery, or selflessness in the face of danger or adversity. It often involves putting oneself at risk to help or protect others.

For instance, a firefighter running into a burning building to save lives is often seen as an act of heroism.
In a discussion about everyday heroes, someone might say, “Acts of heroism can be found in the most unexpected places.”
A person might be honored for their heroism in saving someone’s life.

20. Audacity

Audacity refers to the willingness to take bold and daring actions, often in a confident or fearless manner. It implies a disregard for conventional rules or expectations.

For example, a person might be described as audacious for speaking up in a meeting and challenging the status quo.
In a conversation about daring feats, someone might say, “That was an audacious move!”
A character in a story might be praised for their audacity in standing up against injustice.

21. Pluckiness

Pluckiness refers to someone’s courage and determination in the face of adversity or danger. It is often used to describe someone who is brave and unafraid to take risks.

For example, “Despite the difficult circumstances, she showed great pluckiness and never gave up.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team displayed incredible pluckiness, coming back from a 3-goal deficit to win the game.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “It takes pluckiness to pursue your dreams and overcome obstacles along the way.”

22. Stout-heartedness

Stout-heartedness refers to someone who is brave, courageous, and resolute. It describes a person with a strong and unwavering spirit.

For instance, “He faced his fears with stout-heartedness and never backed down.”
In a war movie, a character might be described as “a soldier with stout-heartedness, leading his comrades into battle.”
A friend might say to someone going through a difficult time, “I admire your stout-heartedness in facing these challenges head-on.”

23. Gallantry

Gallantry refers to heroic and chivalrous behavior, especially towards women. It describes acts of bravery, courtesy, and respect.

For example, “He showed great gallantry by risking his life to save others.”
In a historical context, a knight might be praised for his gallantry in battle and his courteous treatment of others.
A person might say, “I was touched by his gallantry when he offered his seat to an elderly woman on the bus.”

24. Boldness

Boldness refers to the quality of being fearless and daring. It describes someone who is willing to take risks and face challenges head-on.

For instance, “She displayed great boldness by speaking up against injustice.”
In a business context, a leader might be commended for their boldness in making innovative decisions.
A friend might say to someone about to take a leap of faith, “I admire your boldness in pursuing your dreams.”

25. Courageousness

Courageousness refers to the quality of being brave and fearless. It describes someone who has the strength to confront and overcome their fears.

For example, “His courageousness in the face of danger saved lives.”
In a personal development context, a speaker might talk about the importance of cultivating courageousness to overcome obstacles.
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “I believe in your courageousness to face any challenges that come your way.”

26. Stout-hearted

Someone who is stout-hearted is fearless and brave in the face of danger or adversity.

For example, a soldier going into battle might be described as stout-hearted.
A person who stands up for what they believe in, despite opposition, could be considered stout-hearted.
In a story, the protagonist might be described as stout-hearted as they face their fears and overcome challenges.

27. Lionhearted

Lionhearted refers to someone who is fearless and brave, like a lion.

For instance, a person who rescues others from a dangerous situation without hesitation can be described as lionhearted.
A leader who takes risks and stands up for their beliefs might be called lionhearted.
In a movie, the hero who faces the villain head-on and saves the day could be portrayed as lionhearted.

28. Plucky

Plucky describes someone who is brave and determined, especially in the face of adversity.

For example, a young girl who stands up to a bully can be described as plucky.
A person who takes on a difficult challenge with confidence and determination might be called plucky.
In a sports game, a player who never gives up and continues to fight can be described as plucky.

29. Steadfastness

Steadfastness refers to the quality of being unwavering and resolute in the face of challenges or difficulties.

For instance, a person who remains committed to their goals despite obstacles can be described as having steadfastness.
A leader who stays true to their principles and does not waver under pressure exhibits steadfastness.
In a story, the main character’s unwavering determination to achieve their dreams demonstrates steadfastness.

30. Moxie

Moxie refers to a combination of courage, determination, and resourcefulness. It is often used to describe someone who has a bold and fearless attitude.

For example, a person who takes risks and faces challenges head-on can be described as having moxie.
A character in a movie who comes up with creative solutions to overcome obstacles exhibits moxie.
In a sports game, a player who shows great courage and determination in the face of a strong opponent displays moxie.

31. Bravery

Bravery refers to the quality of being courageous or fearless. It is the ability to face danger, difficulty, or pain without being deterred. “Guts” is a slang term often used to describe bravery, especially in informal conversations.

For example, someone might say, “It takes a lot of guts to confront your fears.”
In a discussion about a daring rescue, a person might comment, “That firefighter showed incredible bravery.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Bravery is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it.”

32. Valorization

Valorization refers to the act of valuing or appreciating bravery. It is the recognition and celebration of courageous actions or qualities. “Lionheartedness” is a term used to describe someone who possesses great bravery or courage, often likened to the bravery of a lion.

For instance, someone might say, “I admire his lionheartedness in standing up for what he believes in.”
In a discussion about historical figures, a person might mention, “Joan of Arc is often praised for her lionheartedness.”
A coach might encourage their team by saying, “Show your lionheartedness on the field and give it your all.”