happy warrior
Americannoun
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a person who is undiscouraged by difficulties or opposition.
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(initial capital letter) a nickname of Alfred E. Smith.
Etymology
Origin of happy warrior
First recorded in 1800–10
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.
With all the difficulties that accompany being a gallerist these days, Ms. Cedar proves that it’s most rewarding to be a happy warrior.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 3, 2025
“To anyone who intends to come take away the freedom and opportunity and dignity of Illinoisans, I would remind you that a happy warrior is still a warrior,” Illinois Gov. J.B.
From Salon • Nov. 13, 2024
"He needs to show that he's vigorous and in command and a happy warrior."
From BBC • Mar. 7, 2024
And Scott’s happy warrior approach has yet to catch on.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2023
And she wasn't by any means as convinced of the righteousness of her cause as a happy warrior should be.
From The Wife of Sir Isaac Harman by Wells, H. G. (Herbert George)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
