WordGarden.iodauntless
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɔːntləs/
US
Meanings
Adjective
fearless and determined in the face of danger or difficulty
Beyond the definition
To be dauntless isn't just about not being afraid—it's about facing danger or difficulty with steady courage. Think of a knight charging into battle or an explorer venturing into unknown territory. They may still feel fear, but they refuse to let it control them. A dauntless spirit doesn't shrink from challenges; instead, it meets them head-on. You might describe a sailor navigating a terrible storm as dauntless, or a firefighter rushing into a burning building.
The word traces back to the Old French "daunter," meaning to tame or subdue. To be dauntless, then, is to be hard to tame—someone who refuses to be subdued by fear or hardship. It doesn't mean reckless or arrogant; there's an element of strength and resolve that sets it apart from simply being brave.
Dauntless describes a person or spirit that is remarkably brave and undeterred in the face of danger, difficulty, or opposition. It's more than just bravery; it implies a resolute courage that doesn't falter even when confronted with overwhelming odds. Think of legendary figures like Joan of Arc, known for her dauntless leadership during wartime, or Amelia Earhart, whose dauntless spirit drove her to push the boundaries of aviation.
The word suggests an inner strength and unwavering determination. A dauntless explorer might venture into a dense jungle despite warnings, while a dauntless activist might continue fighting for their cause even in the face of persecution. It's not about lacking fear altogether—it's about refusing to be intimidated or discouraged by it.
You can use "dauntless" to describe people, but also qualities or endeavors. A "dauntless undertaking" is a project that requires immense courage and resilience. A "dauntless heart" suggests unwavering bravery and determination.
While often used in heroic contexts, dauntless can also apply to everyday situations. A child learning to ride a bike despite falling repeatedly could be described as having a dauntless spirit. It's about the refusal to give up, even when things are tough. So, if someone faces adversity with unwavering courage and determination, they are truly dauntless.
Examples
- 1
Journalism
Everyone admired the dauntless reporter who kept asking hard questions.
- 2
Business failure
She stayed dauntless after her first business failed and started again the next year.
- 3
Public criticism
The small group remained dauntless in the face of public criticism.
- Patternin the face of + problem
while dealing with it
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- dauntlessadjective