/kerr"ij, kur"-/ , n.
1. the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.
2. Obs. the heart as the source of emotion.
3. have the courage of one's convictions , to act in accordance with one's beliefs, esp. in spite of criticism.
[ 1250-1300; ME corage cuer heart ( cor; see HEART) + -age -AGE ]
Syn. 1. fearlessness, dauntlessness, intrepidity, pluck, spirit. COURAGE, BRAVERY, VALOR, BRAVADO refer to qualities of spirit and conduct. COURAGE permits one to face extreme dangers and difficulties without fear: to take (or lose ) courage. BRAVERY implies true courage with daring and an intrepid boldness: bravery in a battle. VALOR implies heroic courage: valor in fighting for the right. BRAVADO is now usually a boastful and ostentatious pretense of courage or bravery: empty bravado.
Ant. 1. cowardice.