Definition

Noun: - Strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage: Fortitude is the mental and emotional strength that allows a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, or misfortune with bravery and resilience. It is the quality of being courageous in the face of suffering.

Usage

Fortitude is an uncountable noun. It is used to describe a person's inner strength and character, particularly when they are dealing with a prolonged or severe challenge. It is a formal and positive word, often associated with moral virtue.

Examples

• She showed remarkable fortitude during her long illness.
• The soldiers displayed great fortitude in the face of enemy fire.
• It takes considerable fortitude to admit your mistakes and start over.
• The survivors of the disaster were praised for their fortitude.

Advanced Usage

• "To have the fortitude to do something": To possess the necessary courage and strength of mind to perform a difficult action.
  • He had the fortitude to stand up for what was right, even when it was unpopular.
• "A test/trial of fortitude": A situation that challenges and measures one's inner strength.
  • The marathon was a true test of physical endurance and mental fortitude.

Variants and Related Words

• Fortitudinous (adjective, rare): Possessing or characterized by fortitude.
  • Her fortitudinous response to the crisis inspired everyone.

Synonyms

• Courage: The ability to do something that frightens one; bravery.
• Resilience: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
• Stoicism: The endurance of pain or hardship without the display of feelings or complaint.
• Grit: Courage and resolve; strength of character.
• Backbone: Firmness of character; strength of will.

Antonyms

• Cowardice: Lack of bravery.
• Timidity: Lack of courage or confidence.
• Weakness: The state or condition of lacking strength.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Grace under pressure": This phrase, popularized by Ernest Hemingway, describes a similar concept of maintaining composure and strength during difficult times, closely related to fortitude.
  • The CEO was admired for her grace under pressure during the corporate takeover.

Noun

1. strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage