courageous

adjective

cou·​ra·​geous kə-ˈrā-jəs How to pronounce courageous (audio)
Synonyms of courageousnext
: having or characterized by courage : brave
a courageous soldier
a courageous decision
courageously adverb
courageousness noun

Examples of courageous in a Sentence

She was a courageous woman who wasn't afraid to support unpopular causes. the courageous decision to quit rather than obey an illegal order
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Aries season invites you to be courageous in your relationships. Usa Today, USA Today, 20 Mar. 2026 Other shows on this list were more consistent, but none were as courageous. Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2026 For its personal and courageous cinematic approach that confronts the ongoing negotiation between truth and lies, life and death. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 15 Mar. 2026 The program will highlight the courageous and often overlooked women who played vital roles in the fight for independence. Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for courageous

Word History

Etymology

Middle English corageous, borrowed from Anglo-French corajus, from corage courage + -us, -ous -ous

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of courageous was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Courageous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/courageous. Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

courageous

adjective
cou·​ra·​geous kə-ˈrā-jəs How to pronounce courageous (audio)
: having or marked by courage : brave
courageously adverb
courageousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on courageous

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