Word
steely
US/ˈstiɫi/
UK/stˈiːli/
Definition
adj. having a very strong and calm character, especially when facing a difficult situation. It describes someone who is brave and does not show fear.
adj. possessing a firm, resolute, and unyielding character. Often used to describe a person's gaze, voice, or determination in the face of adversity.
Examples
“She gave him a steely look that made him stop talking.”
“Despite the pressure of the final exam, she maintained a steely focus on her notes.”
“The general's steely resolve during the siege prevented the troops from retreating, even when supplies were running low and the enemy was closing in.”
Examples
simple
“She gave him a steely look that made him stop talking.”
contextual
“Despite the pressure of the final exam, she maintained a steely focus on her notes.”
complex
“The general's steely resolve during the siege prevented the troops from retreating, even when supplies were running low and the enemy was closing in.”
Real-World Examples
“And behind her image, she could be a model of smart, steely self-determination.” Etymology
From steel + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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