What does intrepid mean?
Intrepid describes a person or action marked by courage, determination, and a striking lack of fear in the face of danger or difficulty. It is especially associated with explorers, adventurers, leaders, and others who continue despite uncertainty or risk. The word is more expressive than simply saying that someone is brave: it often suggests boldness, resilience, and a willingness to confront challenges that might cause others to hesitate. Because its tone is formal and occasionally dramatic, intrepid is common in historical writing, journalism, and literary description. Its Latin origin conveys the idea of being “untrembling,” linking the modern word to fearlessness and an absence of physical or emotional trembling. The term can therefore capture not merely the willingness to act, but the calmness and resolve with which that action is undertaken.
adjectiveShowing courage and fearlessness, especially in the face of danger or difficulty. The word often suggests bold action or adventurous determination.
- Courageous or fearless, especially when facing danger, hardship, or an uncertain challenge.
"The intrepid explorer set out across the mountains despite the approaching storm."
"The intrepid team continued its search through the blizzard."
"Her intrepid approach to reform won the admiration of the younger officers."
Intrepid comes from Latin for “untrembling”: courage, in other words, is literally the absence of fear's tremor.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intrepid come from?
Intrepid comes from Latin intrepidus, meaning “untrembling” or “fearless,” formed from the prefix in- and trepidus, “trembling.” English usage developed from the Latin adjective in the early 17th century. The same Latin root is reflected in English words such as trepid and trepidation, while intrepidity and intrepidly are later derivatives of intrepid itself.
Related word forms
How intrepid is actually used
Usually formal or literary. It is commendatory and can convey both admirable courage and a willingness to take substantial risks; in modern use it often has a slightly grand or dramatic tone.
Easily confused with intrepid
Intrepid is an adjective meaning courageous or fearless, whereas intrepidity is a noun meaning the quality of being fearless or courageous.