intrepid
in-TREP-id
/ɪnˈtrep.ɪd/
Fearless and adventurous; resolute when facing unknown or hazardous conditions.
Implies an inherent lack of fear when exploring unfamiliar, dangerous, or uncharted places.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'intrepidus', combining 'in-' (not) with 'trepidus' (alarmed or trembling). An intrepid individual is literally someone who does not tremble when danger appears.
Word relationships
- fearless: Fearless is broader and less formal, while intrepid specifically stresses adventurous discovery in danger.
- dauntless: Dauntless highlights unwillingness to be discouraged by hardship rather than a passion for adventure.
- timid: Timid implies nervousness and a lack of confidence.
- cowardly: Cowardly implies disgraceful fear in the face of duty.
Commonly confused with
- trepidation: Trepidation is the noun meaning fear or anxiety; intrepid means completely without trepidation.
Word family
- intrepidity (noun): resolute fearlessness or daring
- intrepidly (adverb): in a fearless manner
Collocations
- intrepid explorer
- intrepid traveler
- intrepid reporter
Example sentences
- "The intrepid explorer ventured deep into the uncharted cavern system without hesitation." Exploration
- "An intrepid reporter will endure discomfort and hazard to bring truth to light." Journalism
Memory hook
IN-TREPID = IN (not) + TREPID (trembling). If you are intrepid, you do not tremble. No trembling in dangerous territory.
When not to use
Do not use for routine everyday choices or small acts of social politeness.
Fun facts
- The root 'trepid' also gives us 'trepidation' (fearful trembling). Intrepid is simply its exact linguistic opposite.
Explore more words
resolute, uncharted, indefatigable, trepidation, imperturbable, timid
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.