etymology · 1400s–1500s
brave
Drift #7 · May 19, 2026 · attitude
Meaning comparison
Today it means
courageous; showing no fear
It used to mean (1400s–1500s)
vain; showy; gaudy; ostentatious
Etymology
'Brave' came through French from Italian and Spanish 'bravo' — wild, bold, showy. It entered English meaning flashy and ostentatious. The shift from showy to courageous came via the idea that boldness in dress reflected boldness of spirit.
The Drift
How the meaning shifted over time
the drift
1400sshowy; gaudy; vain
1500sfine in appearance; splendid
1500sbold; daring; audacious
1600s+courageous; fearless
In Historical Context
He wore brave colours to the tournament — scarlet and gold — more concerned with his appearance than with his horsemanship.
drift fact
'Bravado' preserves the original Italian flavour — swagger and display rather than genuine courage.
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