daring

1 of 2

adjective

dar·​ing ˈder-iŋ How to pronounce daring (audio)
Synonyms of daringnext
: venturesomely bold in action or thought
daringly adverb
daringness noun

daringness

2 of 2

noun

dar·​ing·​ness ˈder-iŋ-nəs How to pronounce daringness (audio)
plural -es
: the quality or state of being daring
Choose the Right Synonym for daring

adventurous, venturesome, daring, daredevil, rash, reckless, foolhardy mean exposing oneself to danger more than required by good sense.

adventurous implies a willingness to accept risks but not necessarily imprudence.

adventurous pioneers

venturesome implies a jaunty eagerness for perilous undertakings.

venturesome stunt pilots

daring implies fearlessness in courting danger.

daring mountain climbers

daredevil stresses ostentation in daring.

daredevil motorcyclists

rash suggests imprudence and lack of forethought.

a rash decision

reckless implies heedlessness of probable consequences.

a reckless driver

foolhardy suggests a recklessness that is inconsistent with good sense.

the foolhardy sailor ventured into the storm

Examples of daring in a Sentence

Adjective a daring reporter who has covered several wars She's a daring innovator in the field of biotechnology. a daring plan to steal the famous painting She decided to wear a daring dress to the party. ideas that are new and daring the artist's daring use of color
Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
His latest heist was especially daring, at challenge used to one of the best catchers in the game at eliminating runners. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 7 June 2026 The bold and daring hero, who leads the battle for justice, is seen for his passion and wisdom. Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026 Burgundy would also look stunning with a deeper brown, but this surprise color pairing feels a little more daring and exciting. Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 5 June 2026 That’s because of your ambition for the most daring and revelatory stories. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for daring

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1575, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of daring was in 1575

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Daring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/daring. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

daring

1 of 2 adjective
dar·​ing
ˈda(ə)r-iŋ
ˈde(ə)r-
: ready to take risks
daringly adverb

daring

2 of 2 noun
: fearless boldness

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