Gumption

/ˈɡʌmpʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

shrewd or spirited initiative and resourcefulness.

It took a lot of gumption for her to start her own business in a competitive market.

courage or confidence.

He finally found the gumption to ask his boss for a raise.

common sense or intelligence.

You need a bit of gumption to solve this problem without further help.

Early 19th century, possibly from a Scots dialect, meaning 'common sense, shrewdness'.

showing gumption

to display initiative and determination in a challenging situation

a bit of gumption

some initiative or resourcefulness, often in a difficult context

gumption and grit

the combination of initiative and perseverance

initiative

the ability to assess and initiate things independently

determination

the quality of being resolute or firm in purpose

having guts or boldness

It takes gumption to stand up and speak your mind.

a can-do attitude

He approached every task with a lot of gumption.