# mettle

/ˈmɛtəɫ/ (US) · /mˈɛtəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mettle
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the quality of being brave and strong, especially when things get difficult. It is the ability to stay calm and do the right thing even when you are under pressure.

For teachers: the quality of being brave, strong, and determined, especially in the face of adversity. Often used in the phrase 'to prove one's mettle' to describe demonstrating one's character or ability under pressure.

## Examples

- The firefighters showed great mettle during the storm.
- The young team proved their mettle by winning the championship despite being the underdogs all season.
- While the initial crisis was manageable, it was the subsequent weeks of uncertainty that truly tested the mettle of the leadership team.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.