online medical dictionary | definition of bravery

1. The quality of being brave; fearless; intrepidity. "Remember, sir, my liege, . . . The natural bravery of your isle." (Shak)

2. The act of braving; defiance; bravado. "Reform, then, without bravery or scandal of former times and persons."

3. Splendor; magnificence; showy appearance; ostentation; fine dress. "With scarfs and fans and double change of bravery." (Shak) "Like a stately ship . . . With all her bravery on, and tackle trim." (Milton)

4. A showy person; a fine gentleman; a beau. "A man that is the bravery of his age." (Beau. & Fl)

Synonyms: Courage, heroism, interpidity, gallantry, valor, fearlessness, dauntlessness, hardihood, manfulness. See Courage, and Heroism.

Origin: Cf. F. Braverie.

(01 Mar 1998)