1. Courage,bravery,valor,bravado refer to qualities of spirit and conduct. Courage permits one to face extreme dangers and difficulties without fear: to take (or lose) courage.Bravery implies true courage with daring and an intrepid boldness: bravery in a battle.Valor implies heroic courage: valor in fighting for the right.Bravado is now usually a boastful and ostentatious pretense of courage or bravery: empty bravado.
c.1300, from Old French corage (12c., Modern French courage) "heart, innermost feelings; temper," from Vulgar Latin *coraticum (source of Italian coraggio, Spanish coraje), from Latin cor "heart" (see heart) which remains a common metaphor for inner strength.
In Middle English, used broadly for "what is in one's mind or thoughts," hence "bravery," but also "wrath, pride, confidence, lustiness," or any sort of inclination. Replaced Old English ellen, which also meant "zeal, strength."
