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.
