valor
VAL-er
/ˈvæl.ə/
Great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.
Specifically describes high personal bravery demonstrated in physical conflict or perilous duty.
The story behind the word. Directly from Late Latin 'valor', rooted in 'valere' (to be strong). The word moved into Anglo-French as 'valour', capturing the intrinsic worth and physical prowess of a warrior in battle.
Word relationships
- bravery: Bravery is a general term; valor is specifically exalted battlefield or high-stakes physical courage.
- gallantry: Gallantry includes a dash of chivalry or courtly flair.
- cowardice: Lacking courage in danger.
- pusillanimity: Timid or faint-hearted behavior.
Commonly confused with
- value: Value means worth or cost; both stem from Latin valere, but valor focuses on personal strength.
Word family
- valorous (adjective): showing high courage
- valorously (adverb): with great courage
Collocations
- acts of valor
- display valor
- medal for valor
Idioms & expressions
- discretion is the better part of valor
Example sentences
- "The sergeant was awarded the Medal of Honor for conspicuous valor in action." Military honors
- "Tales of extraordinary valor were recorded in the regiment's war archives." Historical records
Memory hook
VALOR = VALUE + WAR. True courage shown in warfare. Warfront bravery.
When not to use
Avoid using for casual daily tasks or minor intellectual arguments.
Fun facts
- The famous proverb 'Discretion is the better part of valor' comes from Falstaff in Shakespeare's Henry IV Part 1.
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