Courage in Latin: Virtus, Fortitudo, or Animus

by Lauren
(United Kingdom)

I have come across many different latin words for "Courage".
Animus, Fortitudo, Virtus. Etc.
Which would you say best means; bravery of character or spirit. To have "guts".


Hi Lauren,

For bravery of character or spirit you're looking for virtus, virtutis, which is derived from the Latin word for man (vir).

Fortitudo, fortitudinis also means strength, courage, or valor, but does not carry the strong connotation of moral character.

While animus, animi can mean courage or spirit, its basic meaning is the rational soul or intellect in mankind.

Hope this helps, and thanks for asking a Latin teacher.

Sincerely,

John