courageous

adjective

cou·​ra·​geous kə-ˈrā-jəs 

: having or characterized by courage : brave

a courageous soldier

a courageous decision

courageously adverb

courageousness noun

Synonyms of courageous

• brave
• fearless
• valiant
• heroic
• gallant
• bold

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

Whispers in May embodies the courageous vision of a woman director in China, where making independent documentary films is a precarious endeavor. —Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 4 Mar. 2026

The story also centers on Jitka, Morava’s courageous fiancée, who goes undercover as bait, and Marleen, a seductive actress who has a secret alliance with Buback. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 3 Mar. 2026

For example, children who participate in heroism training become more courageous, suggesting that anyone can learn to be braver. —Catherine A. Sanderson, The Conversation, 3 Mar. 2026

The Faithful is based on the Bible, and showcases a faithful dramatization of the Book of Genesis as told through the eyes of the courageous and passionate, yet flawed women. —Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2026

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

Rhymes for courageous

• advantageous
• contagious
• outrageous
• disadvantageous

Kids Definition

courageous

adjective

cou·​ra·​geous kə-ˈrā-jəs 

: having or marked by courage : brave

courageously adverb

courageousness noun