Mettle

Pronunciation: /ˈmɛtəl/

Definitions of mettle

noun a person's ability to cope well with difficulties or to face a demanding situation in a spirited and resilient way

Example Sentences

A1 She showed great mettle when facing her fears.

A2 The young athlete's mettle was tested during the intense competition.

B1 His mettle as a leader was evident in how he handled the crisis.

B2 The soldier's mettle was unmatched as he bravely led his troops into battle.

C1 The CEO's mettle was proven through years of successful decision-making and strategic planning.

C2 Only those with true mettle can endure the challenges of entrepreneurship and come out successful.

Examples of mettle in a Sentence

formal The candidate's mettle was tested during the rigorous interview process.

informal I didn't know if she had the mettle to handle the challenge, but she proved me wrong.

slang He showed his mettle on the basketball court, dominating the game.

figurative Facing adversity, she displayed her mettle and came out stronger on the other side.

Grammatical Forms of mettle

• past tense: mettled
• plural: mettles
• comparative: more mettled
• superlative: most mettled
• present tense: mettle
• future tense: will mettle
• perfect tense: have mettled
• continuous tense: is mettling
• singular: mettle
• positive degree: mettle
• infinitive: to mettle
• gerund: mettling
• participle: mettling

Origin and Evolution of mettle

First Known Use: 1300 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'mettle' originated from Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'metal' meaning 'temperament or disposition'.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'mettle' shifted from referring to temperament or disposition to courage, spirit, and resilience, particularly in the context of facing challenges or adversity.