mettle

[met-l] / ˈmɛt l /

NOUN

boldness, strength of character

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bravery caliber courage fortitude grit spunk stamina temperament

STRONG

animation ardor arete backbone daring dauntlessness disposition energy fire force gallantry gameness guts hardihood heart indomitability kidney life makeup moxie nature nerve pluck quality resolution resolve spirit stamp starch temper valor vigor vitality

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cowardice timidity weakness

STRONG

apathy dullness fear idleness inactivity indecision lethargy powerlessness question

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.

It will also test the mettle of the front-runners.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

Much has been made of Dean's ability to hold her mettle in chases.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

While that may be unfashionable in today’s world of prediction markets, cryptocurrencies, and highflying artificial-intelligence bets, Vanguard Wellington has long proven its mettle and is likely to keep doing so.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

In the end we see that this has been not a joke but a test, as in a fairy tale, in which the hero proves his mettle and gets his rewards: love and riches.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

“Never thought any of you had any mettle to show,” he said, attempting to be gruff.

From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander

Vocabulary lists containing mettle

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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The Tragedy of Macbeth

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Unit 3: Compelling Evidence

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