Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.
- Obsolete. the heart as the source of emotion.
- have the courage of one’s convictions, to act in accordance with one’s beliefs, especially in spite of criticism.
noun
- the power or quality of dealing with or facing danger, fear, pain, etc
- the courage of one’s convictions the confidence to act in accordance with one’s beliefs
- take one’s courage in both hands to nerve oneself to perform an action
- obsolete mind; disposition; spirit
c.1300, from Old French corage (12c., Modern French courage) “heart, innermost feelings; temper,” from Vulgar Latin *coraticum (source of Italian coraggio, Spanish coraje), from Latin cor “heart” (see heart) which remains a common metaphor for inner strength.
In Middle English, used broadly for “what is in one’s mind or thoughts,” hence “bravery,” but also “wrath, pride, confidence, lustiness,” or any sort of inclination. Replaced Old English ellen, which also meant “zeal, strength.”
see courage of one’s convictions.
In addition to the idiom beginning with courage
- courage of one’s convictions, have the
also see:
- Dutch courage
- pluck up (one’s courage)