What does temerity mean?
Temerity is a formal noun for excessive or reckless boldness, especially conduct that ignores danger, responsibility, or likely consequences. It often conveys disapproval: a decision may be described as showing temerity when it is daring without sufficient caution or judgment. The word can also have a more neutral or elevated sense of boldness and daring, particularly in historical and literary writing, but its modern use is predominantly negative. Typical constructions include “the temerity to do something” and “the temerity of doing something.” Related nouns such as “audacity” and “recklessness” can describe comparable behavior, while “boldness” may be more neutral and “nerve” may suggest confidence or impudence. Knowing temerity helps distinguish justified courage from boldness that has become careless or impudent. It is especially useful when discussing actions that display nerve without regard for prudence, propriety, or consequences.
nounTemerity means excessive or reckless boldness, especially the willingness to act without regard for danger or consequences. In some formal and historical contexts, it can refer more neutrally to boldness or daring.
- Excessive or reckless boldness, especially in the face of danger or negative consequences.
- Boldness or daring, especially in a formal, literary, or historical sense.
"The committee criticized the temerity of announcing the decision before the inquiry had concluded."
"Few could forgive the temerity of ignoring the warnings."
"Her temerity in confronting the corrupt official won admiration from some and criticism from others."
The countable plural is grammatically possible but uncommon; “temerity” is normally used as an uncountable noun.
"The novel examines the different forms of human temerity."
Temerity comes from a Latin word meaning “rashly,” so the word’s very roots carry the idea of acting without sufficient thought.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does temerity come from?
Temerity entered English in the early 16th century through French temerité, from Latin temeritas, meaning “boldness” or “rashness.” The Latin noun was derived from temere, an adverb meaning “rashly” or “blindly.” Related English forms include temerous and temerously, while intemerate also derives from the same Latin word family.
How temerity is actually used
Temerity is chiefly formal and usually negative, implying that boldness is excessive, rash, or poorly judged. It is more evaluative than the neutral word “boldness,” and is often found in literary, political, legal, and historical prose.
Easily confused with temerity
Timidity is shyness or hesitation, whereas temerity is excessive boldness or rashness.