Valourous

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Displaying exceptional bravery and courage in the face of danger or adversity
2. Exhibiting remarkable courage and fearlessness when confronting peril or hardship
3. Characterized by bold and heroic conduct demonstrated through brave actions in difficult or dangerous circumstances

Etymology: "Valourous" is the British spelling of "valorous," which describes someone showing great courage, especially in battle. The word came into English from Old French "valeureux," an adjective built on "valeur," meaning worth, merit or courage. That French noun descends from Latin "valor," the source of "valour" and related words, and carries the same core idea of being strong or worthy. The spelling difference is the only real divergence. English keeps the "-our" ending in "valour" and "valourous" as a legacy of Anglo-French spelling habits, while American usage later dropped the "u" to produce "valor" and "valorous." Both forms share the same history and meaning, so the choice between them is simply a matter of regional convention.

Synonyms: brave, courageous, heroic, valiant, daring

Antonyms: cowardly, timid, fearful, craven, weak