intrepid
UK[ɪnˈtrɛpɪd]US[ɪnˈtrɛpɪd]
adj
showing no fear of dangerous or difficult situations; very brave.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
trepid
in
not
trepid
alarmed
Etymology
the word 'intrepid' is a direct borrowing from the latin 'intrepidus', which was formed by combining the negative prefix 'in-' with the adjective 'trepidus', meaning 'alarmed' or 'agitated'. the root 'trepidus' is thought to be related to the verb 'trepidare', meaning 'to tremble' or 'to be agitated', possibly deriving from a proto-indo-european root conveying a sense of hurried or restless motion. thus, the literal meaning of 'not alarmed' or 'not trembling' evolved logically into the modern english sense of fearless and resolute courage in the face of danger.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + trepid (alarmed)
in- (latin, prefix meaning 'not'); trepid (latin, root meaning 'alarmed', 'agitated')
Examples
the intrepid explorer ventured deep into the uncharted jungle.
she made an intrepid decision to start her own business during the economic downturn.
the firefighters were praised for their intrepid rescue efforts.