Fortitude \For"ti*tude\, n. [L. fortitudo, fr. fortis strong. See Fort.]

1. Power to resist attack; strength; firmness. [Obs.]

The fortitude of the place is best known to you. --Shak.

2. That strength or firmness of mind which enables a person to encounter danger with coolness and courage, or to bear pain or adversity without murmuring, depression, or despondency; passive courage; resolute endurance; firmness in confronting or bearing up against danger or enduring trouble.

Extolling patience as the truest fortitude. --Milton.

Fortitude is the guard and support of the other virtues. --Locke.

Syn: Courage; resolution; resoluteness; endurance; bravery. See Courage, and Heroism.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)