adjective
intrepid
in-TREP-id/ɪnˈtrepɪd/
Brave and determined when facing danger or difficulty.
The intrepid climber reaches for another hold on the steep rock face.
Etymology
The pieces literally mean “not alarmed.” The Latin compound described someone unshaken by danger, connecting freedom from fear with the steadiness and resolve expressed by intrepid.
In context
weak, and naked in those terrible hands, he made no attempt to speak to the deaf man, but began to laugh audaciously in his face, and to sing with his intrepid heedlessness of a child of sixteen
More examples
- Intrepid rescue workers search the flooded streets for stranded residents.
- The intrepid reporter keeps investigating despite threats against her.
- Our intrepid volunteers tackle even the toughest repair jobs.
Forms
intrepid
intrepidly adverb — In a brave and determined way.
intrepidity noun — Courage and determination in facing danger.
Similar words
- fearless
- Emphasizes lack of fear rather than determination through difficulty.
- brave
- Can describe acting courageously even while feeling afraid.
- dauntless
- Emphasizes refusing to be discouraged by danger or difficulty.