Stouthearted

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Possessing courage and determination in the face of difficulty or danger, showing firm resolve and bravery
2. Marked by resolute courage and unwavering fortitude when confronted with adversity or peril
3. Displaying brave and fearless resilience through steadfast determination when facing challenges or threats

Etymology: "Stouthearted" is a plain compound: "stout" joined to "hearted," the adjective formed from "heart" with the suffix "-ed." The word "stout" once meant strong, sturdy, or physically robust before it came to describe bravery of spirit, and the heart in this sense has long stood for courage and feeling, which is why a person with a brave disposition could be called "hearted" in the first place. Put together, the two parts describe someone whose inner character is firm and unyielding. The construction is transparent: you can read off its meaning from its pieces, which is typical of English compounds built from native elements.

Synonyms: brave, courageous, valiant, fearless, bold

Antonyms: cowardly, timid, fearful, weak, meek