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steely-spined

steely-spined

8.1
Being brave and calm under pressure
  • adjective
  • /ˈstiːli spaɪnd/
translation icon : de carácter firme
  • Despite criticism, the steely-spined director never wavered in her vision for the project.

Examples

  • His steely-spined resolve inspired the whole team to keep going under pressure.

  • You need to be steely-spined to survive in the world of politics.

  • She is a steely-spined leader who never backs down.

  • His steely-spined attitude helped the team win the championship.

  • Despite facing numerous challenges, the steely-spined athlete pushed through to achieve her goals.

  • In the face of adversity, his steely-spined determination earned him respect among his peers.

  • A steely-spined negotiator often stands firm, ensuring that the deal meets their expectations.

Synonyms

gritty
vssteely-spined
41 5.5

Brave and determined when things are difficult or dangerous

stresses firm character and resolve across pressure rather than rough endurance
steely
vssteely-spined
20 5.5

Being very determined and not showing fear

focuses specifically on courage and resolve under pressure rather than mere toughness
strong-willed
vssteely-spined
19 4.3

A person who decides to do something and does not change their mind

focuses more on steady character and courage under pressure than pure willpower
plucky
vssteely-spined
14 6.8

To be brave and keep trying when things are hard

is steadier and more composed, showing long-term firmness under pressure
unyielding
vssteely-spined
10 6.5

Very firm in decisions and not willing to change or give up

is more about courageous steady resolve than stubborn refusal to change
strong-minded
vssteely-spined
3 4.1

Someone who stands firm in beliefs and does not change because of other people

shows firmness under pressure rather than focusing on resisting others' influence
steely-eyed
vssteely-spined
2 7.7

Having a firm, determined look in the eyes

means inner courage and determined character, not only a stern outward expression
stouthearted
vssteely-spined
1 8.2

Brave and determined when facing danger or hard times

emphasizes steady unshakable firmness under pressure rather than spirited bravery
steely-nerved
vssteely-spined
8.3

Very calm and brave in dangerous or difficult situations

shows firm determination and toughness rather than calm composure under pressure
backboned
vssteely-spined
7.0

A person who is brave and stays firm in hard times

is about firm bravery under external pressure more than internal moral courage

Antonyms

Easily frightened and likely to avoid hard or scary things

How Determined

strong-willed
19 4.3
steely-spined
8.1
resolute
1 4.8
determined
399 2.5
firm
28 1.0

Surface Forms

steely-spined positive

Morphology

steely-spined = steely + spined (transparent) = steel + spine + y + ed

The adjective is a clear compound of 'steely' (steel + -y) and 'spined' (spine + -ed), and together they straightforwardly convey 'having a backbone like steel'.

Etymology

Steely-spined comes from the words steel and spine, giving the image of a 'backbone' made of 'steel'. So a steely-spined person is firm and brave under pressure, with a strong, determined character.