Temerity

/təˈmɛrɪti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Excessive confidence or boldness; audacity.

Despite the overwhelming odds against him, he had the temerity to challenge the established authority.

Reckless boldness; rashness.

Her temerity in questioning the CEO during the meeting surprised everyone in the room.

A lack of proper caution; disregard for danger.

It was sheer temerity that led him to hike alone in such treacherous terrain.

From Latin 'temeritas', which means 'rashness' or 'unforeseen.'

temerity in action:

Demonstrating reckless boldness in a situation.

showing temerity:

Exhibiting audacity, often in a challenging context.

Guts

It took guts to stand up to the boss like that.

Nerve

You really have some nerve asking for a raise after that performance.