What does valour mean?
Valour is a formal, chiefly British word for courage and bravery, especially the kind displayed when facing danger, hardship, or moral pressure. It carries an elevated, often approving tone and can suggest a sustained willingness to act despite risk, rather than merely a bold temperament. In writing, it appears in expressions such as showing valour, acts of valour, and moral valour, and it is often associated with heroism, sacrifice, and the defence of others. The related US spelling, valor, is standard in American English, while valour remains especially familiar in British, Canadian, Australian, and other Commonwealth usage. Valour is also distinct from value: one concerns the quality of being brave, whereas the other concerns worth, usefulness, or importance. Knowing the word gives writers a more precise, elevated alternative to courage and bravery when they want to emphasize admirable conduct under difficult circumstances.
nounBravery and courage, especially in the face of danger, hardship, or moral pressure.
- The quality of being brave and courageous, especially when facing danger or difficulty.
"She showed great valour in continuing despite the risk to herself and her family."
"The soldiers were remembered for their courage and valour in the battle."
"It takes moral valour to speak honestly when speaking honestly is unpopular."
Grammatically regular but uncommon; the word is normally used in the singular or in established phrases such as "acts of valour."
"The ceremony honoured the valours of those who had served in the conflict."
From the Latin valere, meaning "to be strong," valour has always joined physical strength with the courage to act.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does valour come from?
The word entered Middle English from Anglo-French valour, which was borrowed from Latin valor, meaning “strength” or “bravery.” Latin valor in turn derives from valere, “to be strong” or “to be well,” the same root that also lies behind words such as value and valid. The modern spelling with “-our” is characteristic of British usage, while American English typically uses “valor.”
Related word forms
How valour is actually used
A formal and generally elevated word, valour often suggests admirable courage in the face of danger or moral difficulty. It is especially common in British and Commonwealth English, while American English normally uses "valor."
Easily confused with valour
Valour means courage or bravery, whereas value means worth, usefulness, or importance.