English Reference

Word

valor

Phoneticsval·or, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈvæɫɝ/

UK/vˈælɐ/

UK spelling · valour

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle. You use this word to describe someone who is very brave when things are scary.

n. great courage or bravery, particularly in a military context or when facing significant physical danger.

Examples

“The soldier received a medal for his valor during the battle.”

“The firefighters were honored for their valor after they entered the burning building to save the trapped family.”

“Historical accounts of the siege often emphasize the valor of the defenders, who remained at their posts despite overwhelming odds and dwindling supplies.”

Examples

simple

“The soldier received a medal for his valor during the battle.”

contextual

“The firefighters were honored for their valor after they entered the burning building to save the trapped family.”

complex

“Historical accounts of the siege often emphasize the valor of the defenders, who remained at their posts despite overwhelming odds and dwindling supplies.”

Usage

Primarily uncountable; often used in formal or literary contexts to describe heroic actions.

Real-World Examples

“When the first world war broke out, she served as an ambulance driver, and was decorated for valour.”
The Guardian 23 Aug 2026
“Para 2012, el valor del cocobolo en China se había disparado hasta superar los 13.000 USD por metro cúbico .”
The Conversation 5 Aug 2026

This entry

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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Frequent
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference