daring 1 of 3

Definition of daringnext

daring

2 of 3

noun

daring

3 of 3

verb

present participle of dare

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective daring contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of daring are adventurous, daredevil, foolhardy, rash, reckless, and venturesome. While all these words mean "exposing oneself to danger more than required by good sense," daring implies fearlessness in courting danger.

daring mountain climbers

When is it sensible to use adventurous instead of daring?

The meanings of adventurous and daring largely overlap; however, adventurous implies a willingness to accept risks but not necessarily imprudence.

adventurous pioneers

In what contexts can daredevil take the place of daring?

Although the words daredevil and daring have much in common, daredevil stresses ostentation in daring.

daredevil motorcyclists

When can foolhardy be used instead of daring?

In some situations, the words foolhardy and daring are roughly equivalent. However, foolhardy suggests a recklessness that is inconsistent with good sense.

the foolhardy sailor ventured into the storm

When is rash a more appropriate choice than daring?

The synonyms rash and daring are sometimes interchangeable, but rash suggests imprudence and lack of forethought.

a rash decision

When would reckless be a good substitute for daring?

The words reckless and daring are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, reckless implies heedlessness of probable consequences.

a reckless driver

When could venturesome be used to replace daring?

While the synonyms venturesome and daring are close in meaning, venturesome implies a jaunty eagerness for perilous undertakings.

venturesome stunt pilots

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of daring
Adjective
The same way a vanilla perfume can add warmth to a fresh fragrance or a skin scent can help soften a statement-making oud perfume, a pink or bronzy blush can help diffuse a more daring hue. Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026 In less than 12 months in office this second time around, he's conducted strikes in seven countries — Iran, Nigeria, Yemen, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and, this weekend, oversaw a daring middle-of-the-night raid in Venezuela. Domenico Montanaro, NPR, 5 Jan. 2026
Noun
But in both the case of the watch and the clock that inspired it, the designs aren’t simply about keeping time, but about representing it with real daring and artistry. Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 16 Sep. 2025 The most daring of the time began partaking in motorcycle hillclimbs, which became the foundation of American motorcycle competitions. Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 11 Sep. 2025
Verb
This transit is here to push us past our comfort zone, essentially daring us to break free from what’s been inhibiting us. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025 Valletta originally modeled the daring dress on the 1999 runway for the Versace spring/summer 2000 show. Anika Reed, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for daring
Recent Examples of Synonyms for daring
Adjective
  • Overall, this is a less-adventurous release than past chapters of Little Book, but there are a range of classic bourbon notes like vanilla, maple, honey, pear, baked apple, and that signature Jim Beam peanut note.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Spend a day at Baía do Sancho, often ranked the world’s best beach for its turquoise water, abundant marine life, and adventurous cliffside access.
    Carla Vianna, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The gathering is not passive remembrance, but a collective act of courage.
    Michelle Edgar, Daily News, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Against a backdrop of a world divided, these teens rise with fire, wit, and unshakable humanity – delivering a masterclass in courage, conviction, and the kind of hope that refuses to be silenced.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 6 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The sheriff’s office has rejected Cal-OSHA’s application of the law, and last summer filed a lawsuit in Yuba Superior Court challenging the subpoenas.
    Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Now one of his staffers is challenging her in her primary.
    Hayleigh Colombo, IndyStar, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Experts say that without a viable alternative to the current ruling system, protests are unlikely to instigate regime change, yet the widespread unrest underscores the profound crises confronting Iran’s government.
    Mostafa Salem, CNN Money, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Video of the shooting, which shows federal agents confronting Good inside a vehicle, has brought widespread attention to Good’s death and prompted protests in Minneapolis.
    PJ Green, Kansas City Star, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Calf & Pony Hair The sleek, tactile surface of pony hair adds a bold edge to any accessory, creating a striking contrast in bags, hats, and footwear.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Simone’s performance is mesmerizing—bold, vulnerable, and transformative.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 9 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • And she was given the keys to bravery.
    Daniel D'Addario, Variety, 7 Jan. 2026
  • What was so heartbreaking and inspiring was the quiet bravery and resilience of the people in Ukraine.
    Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Pakko acknowledged the challenges row-crop farmers are facing and how that contributed to his predictions for the overall Arkansas economy.
    Sydney Sasser, Arkansas Online, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Bank of America’s virtual financial assistant, Erica, is at the forefront of the bank’s client-facing technology.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • And that was a brave thing to do.
    Dan Morrison, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • In the Zootopia sequel directed by Jared Bush and Bryon Howard, brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), team up again to crack the most perilous and intricate case of their careers.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 6 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Daring.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/daring. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.

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