audacity
UK: ɔːˈdæs.ə.ti | US: ɑːˈdæs.ə.ti
n. boldness or daring, especially with confident disregard for personal safety or conventional thought
n. rude or disrespectful behavior; impudence
The word "audacity" stems from the Latin audacia (boldness), derived from audax (bold, daring), which itself comes from audere (to dare). The root aud- conveys courage or willingness to take risks, while the suffix -ity forms abstract nouns indicating a state or quality. Over time, "audacity" evolved in English to describe both admirable boldness and negative impudence, reflecting the dual nature of daring actions—either heroic or reckless.
She had the audacity to challenge the CEO’s decision during the meeting.
His audacity in skydiving without training shocked everyone.
The thief showed unbelievable audacity by stealing in broad daylight.
Politicians often need audacity to push for radical reforms.
I can’t believe the audacity of cutting in line like that!