Intrepidity

Saturday, November 15, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Intrepidity?

noun
Fearlessness; resolute courage.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /ˌɪn.trəˈpɪd.ə.ti/
UK pronunciation: /ˌɪn.trɪˈpɪd.ɪ.ti/
Slow pronunciation: in-tre-PIH-di-tee

Meaning Explained

Intrepidity is steady bravery under pressure — less rash than boldness, more steadfast than nerve.

Why This Word?

Chosen to celebrate courage that serves others, not ego.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • Her intrepidity inspired volunteers.
  • Intrepidity and prudence are better together.
  • Journalists showed intrepidity in the field.

Word Origins

Latin intrepidus “unshaken,” from in- + trepidus “alarmed”

Often paired with exploration and rescue narratives.

First appearance in English: 17th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Adjective: intrepid

    An intrepid climber summited at dawn.

  • Noun: fortitude

    Her fortitude steadied the team.

  • Adjective: dauntless

    A dauntless crew set sail.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: intrepidez
  • French: intrépidité
  • German: Unerschrockenheit
  • Italian: intrepidezza
  • Portuguese: intrepidez

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Courage

Broad virtue; intrepidity is fearless steadiness.

Valor

Often martial; intrepidity is context-agnostic.

Audacity

Daring that can be rash; intrepidity implies resolve.

Fun Facts

  • The USS Intrepid is a famous aircraft carrier museum.
  • “Trepidation” is the opposite family: fearful agitation.

Cultural Usage

  • Accounts of polar expeditions praise intrepidity.
  • Citations mention intrepidity in combat.

Common Mistakes

Not “insensitivity”; intrepidity feels fear but acts anyway.

Micro Story

With intrepidity, the team entered the burning building.