bravado
Say it: bruh-VAH-doh /brəˈvɑːdəʊ/ · noun
What “bravado” means
A show of confidence to impress others or hide fear.
More precisely: A bold show of confidence meant to impress or hide fear.
Example: “His bravado before the interview vanished the moment he sat down.”
When to use it
Use it when bold words or swagger seem meant to impress, especially when someone is secretly nervous. It often sounds sceptical.
Similar words
swagger, bluster, false confidence
Where it comes from
Spanish bravata, from bravo 'bold'.
Quick check
Before a scary ride, Alex boasts loudly that nothing frightens him, but his hands shake. What does his boasting show?
bravado or composure?
Show the answer
bravado
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