noun
bravado
brah-VAH-doh
Bravado (noun) means a bold, showy display of courage that is often not entirely genuine. Example: “His bravado faded the moment the interview actually started.”
noun
1
A bold, showy display of courage that is often not entirely genuine.
"His bravado faded the moment the interview actually started."
"She spoke with a bravado that hid how nervous she really was."
How to use bravado
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPutting on a show of confidence or courage that may be covering up fear or doubt.
Common mistake
Bravado suggests a performance of courage, unlike genuine bravery, which is the real thing.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
sheer bravado
macho bravado
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Word forms
- Plural
- bravados, bravadoes
- Third person singular
- bravados
- Past tense
- bravadoed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ faded the moment the interview actually started.
Etymology
From French bravade, ultimately from Italian bravare ("to brag, to boast") — related to bravo and brave.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for bravado
See all rhymes for bravado →Frequently asked questions
What does “bravado” mean?
The word “bravado” means a bold, showy display of courage that is often not entirely genuine. In plain terms, putting on a show of confidence or courage that may be covering up fear or doubt.
How do you pronounce “bravado”?
“Bravado” is pronounced brah-VAH-doh (/bɹɑˈvɑdoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “bravado” in a sentence?
Here is “bravado” used in a sentence: “His bravado faded the moment the interview actually started.”
What part of speech is “bravado”?
“Bravado” is a noun.
Where does the word “bravado” come from?
The word “bravado” comes from French. From French bravade, ultimately from Italian bravare ("to brag, to boast") — related to bravo and brave.
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