beard
UK: bɪəd | US: bɪrd
n. the hair growing on the lower part of a man’s face
v. to confront someone boldly or defy openly
The word "beard" traces back to Old English beard, derived from Proto-Germanic bardaz, which is linked to the Proto-Indo-European root bhardhā- meaning "beard." This root is also the source of similar words in other Germanic languages (e.g., German Bart, Dutch baard). The term has retained its core meaning across millennia, referring specifically to facial hair. The verb form, meaning "to confront boldly," emerged metaphorically in the 16th century, likening defiance to the boldness symbolized by a prominent beard.
He trimmed his beard carefully before the interview.
The old sailor had a long, white beard.
She decided to beard the lion in its den by confronting the CEO directly.
In some cultures, a thick beard is a sign of wisdom.
The knight’s beard was singed by the dragon’s breath.