# Stoicism

/ˈstoʊəˌsɪzəm/ (US) · /stˈəʊɪsˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stoicism
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the ability to go through hard times or pain without complaining or showing your emotions. You might show this when you stay calm during a crisis instead of panicking.

For teachers: the endurance of pain or hardship without the display of feelings and without complaint. When capitalised, it designates the ancient Greek school of philosophy that taught self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions.

## Examples

- He showed great stoicism during his long and painful illness.
- Despite losing her job and her home in the same week, she faced the uncertain future with remarkable stoicism.
- The cultural expectation of stoicism in young men often prevents them from seeking necessary psychological support when dealing with profound grief or trauma.

## Usage notes

- Frequently modified by adjectives like 'great' or 'remarkable', or used in the prepositional phrase 'with stoicism'.

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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.