n.
Pronunciation: ' me-t ə l
Function: noun
Etymology: alteration of metal
Date: 1581
1 a : vigor and strength of spirit or temperament <suspected to have more tongue in his head than mettle in his bosom ― Sir Walter Scott> b : staying quality : STAMINA <trucks had proved their mettle in army transport ― Pioneer & Pacemaker >
2 : quality of temperament or disposition <gentlemen of brave mettle ― Shakespeare>
synonyms see COURAGE
– met · tled \ -t ə ld \ adjective
– on one's mettle : aroused to do one's best