prowess
UK /ˈpɹaʊɪs/ · US /ˈpraʊ(w)əs/ noun
Forms prowesses
- noun (uncountable) Skillfulness or extraordinary ability in a particular area of expertise; dexterity, mastery, or proficiency.
- noun (uncountable) Distinguished bravery or courage, especially in battle; heroism.
- noun An act of adroitness or dexterity.
- noun An act of distinguished bravery or courage; a heroic deed.
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Antonyms
Etymology
From Middle English prowesse, prouwesse, proues, prouesce, prouesse (“bravery in battle; act of bravery; excellence; nobility of character; intelligence”), from Old French proeche, proesce, proeësche (“goodness; excellence; bravery”), from Old French preu, prou, prouz, proz, pruz (“good; excellent; brave”). Compare English proud.
Webster’s 1913
- noun Distinguished bravery; valor; especially, military bravery and skill; gallantry; intrepidity; fearlessness. Chaucer. Sir P. Sidney.
Etymology [OF. proece, proesce, F. prouesse. See Prow, a.]
Sources: Wiktionary · WordNet 3.0 · Webster’s 1913 — from the Wiktionary entry “prowess”, CC BY-SA 4.0. Details