mettle

== English == === Etymology === From figurative use of metal (since 16th century). The two spellings were originally interchangeable variants, but came to be distinguished by sense in the 18th century. === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈmɛtəl/ Rhymes: -ɛtəl Homophones: metal, medal (t-flapping), meddle (t-flapping) Hyphenation: met‧tle === Noun === mettle (usually uncountable, plural mettles) A quality of courage and endurance. Synonyms: heart, pith, spirit Good temperament and character. Obsolete spelling of metal (“metallic substance”). ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== === Adjective === mettle (Scotland) Spirited, vigorous, stout-hearted. === References ===