valorous
AmericanOther Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of valorous
First recorded in 1470–80; from Medieval Latin valorōsus “valiant,” from Latin valor “worth, honor” + -ōsus adjective suffix; see origin at valor, -ous
Explanation
To be valorous is to show valor: to be valiant and courageous. Valor is a word for courage, like the courage to pull a child out of a burning building. People who show the quality of valor are valorous. War heroes are valorous. A parent who sacrifices a lot for their children is valorous. In superhero movies, the lead characters are valorous, as they overcome the odds to save the day. This is a strong word for actions that are truly heroic. Valorous actions are rare and worthy of great respect.
Vocabulary lists containing valorous
A Farewell To Arms
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Words to Describe a Hero or Heroine
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The Wind in the Willows
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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.
Odysseus’ bow is an extension of his valorous identity.
From Salon ● Aug. 2, 2026
Much of the event on Wednesday was focused on Anderson’s valorous sacrifice, and rightly so.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2024
We’re a nation that so often sees suffering as valorous, preferring to evoke notions of “Blitz spirit” rather than addressing structural inequalities.
From Slate ● Jan. 14, 2023
A decade later, an aide to Sen. Charles Schumer of New York discovered a previously unknown 1918 memorandum from Gen. John Pershing describing Johnson’s valorous performance in the field.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 12, 2022
He was a valorous opportunist who pounced hoggishly upon every opportunity Colonel Korn discovered for him and trembled in damp despair immediately afterwards at the possible consequences he might suffer.
From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller
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.
