fortitude

noun

for·​ti·​tude ˈfȯr-tə-ˌtüd 

-ˌtyüd

1

: strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage

2

obsolete : strength

Did you know?

Fortitude comes from the Latin word fortis, meaning “strong,” and in English it has always been used primarily to describe strength of mind. For a time, the word was also used to mean “physical strength”; William Shakespeare used it that way in Henry VI, Part 1: “Coward of France! How much he wrongs his fame / Despairing of his own arm’s fortitude.” But despite use by the famous bard, that meaning languished and is now considered obsolete. Even the familiar phrase “intestinal fortitude” is just a humorous way to refer to someone’s courage or mental stamina, not the literal strength of their digestive system. (If you’re looking to describe a mighty gastrointestinal tract, we might suggest “iron stomach.”)

Synonyms of fortitude

• courage
• stamina
• bravery
• grit
• courageousness

Examples of fortitude in a Sentence

… everyone in the family was succored by Elizabeth's fortitude and steadfastness. —Nicholas Fox Weber, The Clarks Of Cooperstown, 2007

But now Frum, by having the fortitude to revisit that bizarre era, has half-persuaded me that the '70s, a partial negation of the '60s, in one way, were a partial confirmation of them in another. —Christopher Hitchens, Civilization, April/May 2000

He learned that war was a hurly-burly of violence in which men prevailed through imagination and the fortitude to struggle on despite reverses. —Neil Sheehan, A Bright Shining Lie, 1988

She has endured disappointments with fortitude and patience.

it was only with the greatest fortitude that the Pilgrims were able to survive their first winter in Plymouth

Recent Examples on the Web

The five points of the star represent the characteristics of a good citizen, which are fortitude, loyalty, righteousness, prudence, and broadmindedness. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026

In this scenario, Rogen would emerge as a courageous if idiosyncratic folk hero — one richly rewarded for his stoner fortitude. — Peter Bart, Deadline, 30 July 2026

In some respects, polytropos is an unusual choice—most Homeric heroes are described in terms of their fortitude, their strength, or their prowess in battle. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 24 July 2026

In a sport where mental fortitude is vital, checking in with herself is second nature for Merhige and preventing burnout is a core objective. — Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin fortitudin-, fortitudo, from fortis — see fortify

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fortitude

• intestinal fortitude

Rhymes for fortitude

• altitude
• amplitude
• aptitude
• attitude
• barbecued
• certitude
• desuetude
• devalued
• finitude
• gratitude
• interlude
• interviewed

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Kids Definition

fortitude

noun

for·​ti·​tude ˈfȯrt-ə-ˌt(y)üd 

: strength of mind that enables a person to meet danger or bear pain or hardship with courage