Sangfroid: meaning, definitions and examples

😌
Add to dictionary

sangfroid

 

[ sæŋˌfrwɑː ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

calmness under pressure

Sangfroid refers to the ability to remain calm and composed in difficult or stressful situations. It denotes a level of self-control and poise that is often admired in individuals who can handle crises without losing their cool.

Synonyms

composure, coolness, equanimity, self-possession.

Examples of usage

  • Despite the chaos around him, she maintained her sangfroid.
  • His sangfroid in the face of danger was truly impressive.
  • The firefighter's sangfroid saved lives during the emergency.

Translations

Translations of the word "sangfroid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sangue-frio

🇮🇳 शांतता

🇩🇪 Kaltblütigkeit

🇮🇩 ketenangan

🇺🇦 холоднокровність

🇵🇱 zimna krew

🇯🇵 冷静さ

🇫🇷 sang-froid

🇪🇸 sangre fría

🇹🇷 soğukkanlılık

🇰🇷 냉정함

🇸🇦 هدوء الأعصاب

🇨🇿 chladnokrevnost

🇸🇰 chladnokrvnosť

🇨🇳 冷静

🇸🇮 hladnokrvnost

🇮🇸 kaldhuga

🇰🇿 салқынқандылық

🇬🇪 ცივი სისხლი

🇦🇿 soyuqluq

🇲🇽 sangre fría

Etymology

The term 'sangfroid' originates from the French language, where it literally translates to 'cold blood.' The word is a compound of two elements: 'sang' meaning 'blood' and 'froid' meaning 'cold.' This phrase metaphorically conveys the idea of having a 'cold' or impassive demeanor in the face of challenges or distress. The term entered the English lexicon in the early 19th century, reflecting a fascination with the French language and culture during that time. It has since evolved to be used in literary and colloquial contexts to describe those who can keep their calm amidst turmoil. The concept of maintaining sangfroid has often been celebrated in literature, theater, and even psychology, as a hallmark of strength and resilience.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,256, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.