Definitions

mettle

[met-l] / ˈmɛt l /

NOUN

boldness, strength of character

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bravery caliber courage fortitude grit spunk stamina temperament

STRONG

animation ardor arete backbone daring dauntlessness disposition energy fire force gallantry gameness guts hardihood heart indomitability kidney life makeup moxie nature nerve pluck quality resolution resolve spirit stamp starch temper valor vigor vitality

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cowardice timidity weakness

STRONG

apathy dullness fear idleness inactivity indecision lethargy powerlessness question

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.

It will also test the mettle of the front-runners.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

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

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

Newcastle showed their mettle to see the game out, which felt timely before Wednesday's trip to the Nou Camp.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

This is a test—of my mettle, my strength—which means there must be something specific I’m supposed to do to get out of here.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir

Vocabulary lists containing mettle

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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The Tragedy of Macbeth

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Unit 3: Compelling Evidence

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