Synonyms of valor
: strength of mind or spirit that enables a person to encounter danger with firmness : personal bravery

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When Should You Use valor?

Valor in uniform is still rewarded by medals. Many American civic organizations award a Medal of Valor for physical courage, and the Air Force Medal of Honor displays the single word "Valor". The somewhat old-fashioned adjective valorous more often describes warriors of the past. But valiant is still in common use, though it less often describes military courage than other kinds of bravery or effort.

Examples of valor in a Sentence

The soldiers received the nation's highest award for valor. the absence of indecision even in the face of death is the true mark of valor
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Eternal valor is on the line, along with cash prizes and a sequined belt. Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 4 July 2026 Its wildlife officers risk their lives daily to protect the natural wonders of Florida and do it with bravery and valor. Joe Murphy, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 May 2026 But the valor of the real soldiers who carried the banner of American ideals into the firefight is nonetheless reflected in this story. Kevin P. Sullivan, Entertainment Weekly, 26 June 2026 The quality that drew Kurosawa to Yonezawa’s novel in the first place is not valor or cunning but something considerably less heroic. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for valor

Word History

Etymology

Middle English valour "worth, worthiness, bravery," borrowed from Anglo-French valor, valur, inherited or borrowed from early Medieval Latin valor, from Latin val- (stem of validus "in good health, robust, having legal authority," valēre "to be well, have strength") + -or, noun suffix — more at valid, wield

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of valor was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Valor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valor. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: personal bravery in the face of danger

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