Valours

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A measure of great courage and bravery shown in facing dangers or challenges; a demonstration of heroic qualities in the face of adversity; the act of displaying boldness and fearlessness in difficult situations
2. The quality of being courageous and noble, especially in perilous circumstances; an exhibition of strength and determination when confronting threats; an instance of exhibiting bold spirit in overcoming obstacles
3. The trait of displaying courage and determination in challenging contexts; a manifestation of heroism or gallantry when under pressure; an example of steadfastness and valor in the midst of danger

Etymology: "Valours" is simply the plural of "valour", so the real story belongs to the singular. That word came into Middle English from Anglo-Norman "valour", which took it from Latin "valor", meaning worth, value, or strength. The Latin root "valere", to be strong or to be worth something, is the same one behind "valiant" and "value", so the link between worth and bravery was built into the word from the start. The English spelling "valour" with a u follows the Anglo-Norman form, while "valor" with no u is the American standard. "Valure" is a doublet, a second English form that arrived by a separate route from the same Latin source.

Synonyms: courage, bravery, valor

Antonyms: cowardice