Fortitude
/ˈfɔːrtɪtjuːd/
Definitions
Mental and emotional strength in facing difficulty, adversity, danger, or temptation courageously.
/ˈfɔːrtɪtjuːd/
Courage in pain or adversity
The soldiers showed great fortitude in the face of enemy fire.
💡 Simply: Fortitude is like having a super strong heart that can handle tough times. It's the ability to be brave and keep going even when things are hard, like when you fall and scrape your knee but still get back up and play!
👶 For kids: Fortitude means being brave and strong when things are hard.
More Examples
Her fortitude was tested by the long and arduous journey.
He met his challenges with quiet fortitude.
The fortitude of the survivors was truly inspiring.
How It's Used
"She displayed remarkable fortitude during her illness."
"Fortitude is considered a key virtue in overcoming challenges."
Idioms & expressions
to keep a stiff upper lip
To show courage and control, especially during a difficult time. To remain calm and brave in a difficult or stressful situation.
"Despite the bad news, she kept a stiff upper lip and continued with her work."
From Latin *fortitudo*, meaning "strength, courage," derived from *fortis* "strong." It has been used in English since the 14th century.
The word "fortitude" has been used since the 14th century, and was often used in religious and philosophical texts to describe the ability to resist temptation and endure suffering for a righteous cause.
Memory tip
Imagine a strong FORT (fortitude) standing against a storm; the ability to withstand hardship.
Word Origin
"strong, brave"