Mettle
['met(ə)l] or ['mɛtl]
Definition
(n.) Substance or quality of temperament; spirit, esp. as regards honor, courage, fortitude, ardor, etc.; disposition; -- usually in a good sense.
Edited by Craig
Synonyms and Synonymous
n. Spirit, nerve, vigor, ardor, pluck, hardihood, courage.
Typed by Jeanette
Synonyms and Antonyms
SYN:Ardor, spirit, life, fire, animation
ANT:Hebetude, insensibility, callousness, placidity, stoicism, cowardice,submissiveness, slavishness
Inputed by Bess
Definition
n. ardent temperament: spirit: sprightliness: courage.—adjs. Mett′led Mett′lesome high-spirited: ardent.—n. Mett′lesomeness quality or state of being mettlesome.—Put one on his mettle to rouse a person up to putting forth his best efforts.
Edited by Hattie
Examples
- This put my rival on his mettle, and he put on his best powers, which, however, were soon reached. Frank Lewis Dyer. Edison, His Life and Inventions.
- It is needless to say that witnessing the ordinary slow and costly procedure would put Edison on his mettle. Frank Lewis Dyer. Edison, His Life and Inventions.
- The arrival of this unexpected heir soon taking wind in the court still makes good for the Sol and keeps the court upon its mettle. Charles Dickens. Bleak House.
- This author puts my credulity on its mettle every now and then. Mark Twain. The Innocents Abroad.
- Poor Leinster is infinitely more attentive and amiable, since this powerful rival has put him upon his mettle. Harriette Wilson. The Memoirs of Harriette Wilson.
- I found much amusement in tickling up my mare a little, as I rode it close to his horse in order to put a little mettle into them both. Harriette Wilson. The Memoirs of Harriette Wilson.
- Such is my spirit when I am on my mettle. Thomas Hardy. The Return of the Native.
Typed by Gwendolyn