mettlesome

Group 23Difficulty 3/3

Definition

(adjective)
Full of spirit and courage; plucky
GRE

Example in Context

The mettlesome young journalist refused to drop the story despite receiving anonymous threats that would have intimidated a less courageous reporter.

Synonyms

spiritedbravebold

Etymology

Having a spirit or courage that shows through one's actions.

  • mettle (Middle English) — spirit

Memory Aid

⚔️Sounds like “metal some

Imagine a knight made of METAL who is so METTLESOME that he challenges dragons to a dance-off!

Visual Association

🦸‍♂️A superhero soaring through the skies, full of courage and determination.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “mettlesome” mean on the GRE?

mettlesome (adjective) means “Full of spirit and courage; plucky”. The mettlesome young journalist refused to drop the story despite receiving anonymous threats that would have intimidated a less courageous reporter.

How to remember “mettlesome” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “mettlesome” sounds like “metal some”. Imagine a knight made of METAL who is so METTLESOME that he challenges dragons to a dance-off!

What are synonyms for “mettlesome”?

Common synonyms: spirited, brave, bold.