redoubtable
UK: rɪˈdaʊtəbl | US: rɪˈdaʊtəbl
adj. inspiring fear or respect through being impressively powerful, intense, or capable
adj. (archaic) formidable in battle or conflict
redoubtable = re<again> + doubt<fear> + able<capable of>
- re: Prefix meaning "again" (from Latin re-).
- doubt: Root meaning "fear" (from Old French douter, Latin dubitare "to hesitate, fear").
- able: Suffix meaning "capable of" (from Latin -abilis).
Etymology Origin:
The word "redoubtable" traces back to Old French redoutable, combining re- (intensifier) + douter (to fear). Originally, it described someone so fearsome in battle that they inspired repeated (re-) fear (doubt). Over time, it broadened to mean "commanding respect due to power or ability," retaining its formidable connotation.
The general was a redoubtable leader, feared by enemies and revered by allies.
Her redoubtable intellect made her a formidable opponent in debates.
The fortress was considered redoubtable due to its impenetrable defenses.
Despite his age, the veteran remained a redoubtable force on the battlefield.
The team faced the redoubtable challenge of climbing the icy mountain.