mettle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The rookie showman is proving his mettle as part of the Caballero Circus, a five-generation family of performers, by enchanting audiences with his charismatic stage presence and sharp coordination.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

This was a monumental test of Hearts' mettle and they passed it, with a world of help from Hibs and their self-destructive red cards.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026

While that may be unfashionable in today’s world of prediction markets, cryptocurrencies, and highflying artificial-intelligence bets, Vanguard Wellington has long proven its mettle and is likely to keep doing so.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

He belongs to the so-called war generation—men who didn’t lead the revolution but tested their mettle in the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

“Never thought any of you had any mettle to show,” he said, attempting to be gruff.

From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander