What does intrepidly mean?
Intrepidly means in a way that displays courage, determination, and a willingness to confront danger, hardship, or uncertainty. It is used especially when describing bold actions, adventurous journeys, or the resolute conduct of people who continue despite serious obstacles. The adverb is somewhat formal and literary, so it appears more often in journalism, biography, history, and descriptive prose than in casual conversation. Its implication is strongly positive: the person or action is not merely surviving difficulty but meeting it with conspicuous bravery. The related adjective is “intrepid,” meaning courageous or fearless, while the noun “intrepidity” names the quality itself. Intrepidly can describe a deliberate decision, such as continuing an expedition, challenging an authority, or attempting a difficult undertaking, and it often lends a heroic tone to the sentence.
adverbIn a manner showing fearlessness, courage, and determination in the face of danger, difficulty, or uncertainty.
- With fearless determination and resolve in the face of danger or difficulty.
"The explorers continued intrepidly despite the worsening weather and the exhaustion that had begun to slow the entire team."
"The young climber intrepidly attempted the exposed ridge before sunrise."
"Facing criticism with unusual calm, she intrepidly defended the proposal and invited further discussion."
To be intrepid is to face uncertainty without surrendering your nerve to it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intrepidly come from?
The word comes from Latin “intrepidus,” meaning “not timid” or “bold,” formed from the prefix “in-” and “trepidus,” meaning “timid” or “agitated.” It entered English through French and was used of people and actions noted for fearlessness. Its relatives include “trepidation,” “trepidant,” and “trepidate,” all associated with timidity or fear.
Related word forms
How intrepidly is actually used
This is a relatively formal and literary word, especially common in journalism, historical writing, and descriptions of heroic or adventurous conduct. It normally carries a strongly approving connotation.
Easily confused with intrepidly
“Intrepid” is the adjective describing a courageous person or approach, while “intrepidly” is the adverb describing how an action is carried out.