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Moxie: meaning, definitions and examples

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moxie

 

[ ˈmɒksi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

personal quality

Moxie refers to a force of character, determination, or nerve. It describes a person's ability to face challenges with resilience and bravery.

Synonyms

courage, determination, guts, spunk

Examples of usage

  • She showed a lot of moxie by standing up to the bully.
  • It takes moxie to start your own business.
  • His moxie was evident during the difficult negotiations.

Word origin

The word 'moxie' has an interesting origin. It stems from the Moxie Nerve Food beverage that was formulated in the 1880s as a tonic and was promoted as a drink for revitalization. The drink was popular in the early 20th century, and the term gradually became associated with the qualities of boldness and courage that the drink was thought to impart. By the mid-20th century, 'moxie' evolved into slang, encapsulating the essence of a spirited personality willing to take risks and tackle challenges head-on. Its cultural significance has been reinforced through various media, and it remains a testament to the enduring idea of having the guts to pursue one's ambitions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,309, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.