prowess
[prou-is]
- exceptional valor, bravery, or ability, especially in combat or battle.
- exceptional or superior ability, skill, or strength: his prowess as a public speaker.
- a valiant or daring deed.
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Origin of prowess
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Related Words
dexteritytalentreadinessmasteryaccomplishmentgeniusexcellenceaptitudeexpertisegritheroismcouragevalorboldnessmettleexpertnessadeptnessadroitnessfacilitysleightExamples from the Web for prowess
Contemporary Examples
As narcocorridos extolled his prowess, he built his business empire.
From the day he entered the league, Rodriguez was distinguished by his otherworldly power and prowess.
But he also showed an inordinate interest in shooting and his prowess, going to the range at night when he could not sleep.
Over and over, people have spoken about President Obama's prowess as a communicator.
He added, “Behind the word was an unspoken pact: they gave one another credit for prowess.”
Historical Examples
But speedily now shall I prove him the prowess and pride of the Geats, shall bid him battle.
BeowulfAnonymous
He leered at her as though expecting her to flame at his prowess.
Louisiana LouWilliam West Winter
So that at this date they regarded their prowess as invincible.
HellenicaXenophon
The prowess of women has often been conspicuous in besieged cities.
I will tell you of my prowess and exploits, and what I can perform.
The Indian Fairy BookCornelius Mathews
prowess
- outstanding or superior skill or ability
- bravery or fearlessness, esp in battle
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Word Origin
C13: from Old French proesce, from prou good; see proud
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for prowess
n.
late 13c., prouesse, from Old French proece "prowess, courage, brave deed" (Modern French prouesse), from prou, later variant of prud "brave, valiant," from Vulgar Latin *prodem (cf. Spanish proeza, Italian prodezza; see proud). Prow was in Middle English as a noun meaning "advantage, profit," also as a related adjective ("valiant, brave"), but it has become obsolete. "In 15-17th c. often a monosyllable" [OED].
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper