rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymoxieSpirited determination
noun

moxie

MAHK-see/ˈmɑːksi/

courage and energy to act with determination

The climber shows moxie by boldly reaching for the next hold on the overhang.

A middle-aged man tackles a steep climbing-wall overhang with a determined half-smile, reaching boldly for the next hold while an older woman belays him below.
Etymology
moxieEnglisha drink brand

Moxie was a drink brand, possibly first used for a patent medicine advertised to “build up your nerve.” The name came to denote courage and bold confidence.

In context

60 Minutes Australia15:59
she's a go-getter she has moxie she has hootsburgh and at the end of the day she gets things done
How con-artist Anna Sorokin ripped off the New York elite and became a star | 60 Minutes Australia

More examples

  • Starting a business with no savings takes plenty of moxie.
  • I admire his moxie, even when his plans fail.
  • The young team shows real moxie against its experienced rivals.

Similar words

grit
Emphasizes persistence through prolonged hardship rather than bold initiative.
pluck
Suggests spirited courage when facing danger or difficult odds.
nerve
Emphasizes boldness under pressure and can also suggest audacity.