bravado
UK: brəˈvɑːdəʊ | US: brəˈvɑːdoʊ
n. a bold manner or a show of boldness intended to impress or intimidate
n. false or exaggerated bravery, often to mask fear or insecurity
bravado = brav<bold> + ado<action, condition>
- brav (bold): Derived from Italian "bravo" (brave, bold) and Spanish "bravada" (bravery).
- ado (action, condition): From Spanish suffix "-ado," indicating a state or action (similar to "-ade" in English, e.g., "blockade").
Etymology Origin:
"Bravado" entered English in the late 16th century from Spanish "bravada," meaning "bravery" or "boastful threat." The Spanish term itself stems from "bravo" (bold, fierce), likely influenced by Italian "bravare" (to defy). The word originally described swaggering courage but later acquired a negative connotation of exaggerated or false bravery. The "-ado" suffix reflects its Romance-language roots, denoting a state or action, much like "-ade" in English.
His bravado faded when he faced the actual danger.
She dismissed his threats as mere bravado.
The gang leader’s bravado intimidated the newcomers.
Behind his bravado, he was secretly terrified.
The politician’s speech was full of empty bravado.