mettlesome
UK: ˈmɛtlsəm | US: ˈmɛtlsəm
adj. full of vigor, courage, or spirit; spirited
adj. (archaic) having mettle; high-spirited
The word "mettlesome" combines "mettle," an archaic term for courage or spirit (originally a variant of "metal," metaphorically representing strength), and the suffix "-some," which forms adjectives meaning "tending to" or "characterized by." The evolution reflects a shift from the literal hardness of metal to the figurative strength of character.
The mettlesome horse refused to back down from the jump.
Her mettlesome attitude inspired the team during the crisis.
The young knight was as mettlesome as he was inexperienced.
Critics praised the film’s mettlesome protagonist for defying conventions.
Despite his age, he remained mettlesome and eager for adventure.