redoubtable
adjective
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The word redoubtable is worthy of respect itself, if only for its longevity. It has been used in English for things that cause fear, dread, and apprehension since at least the 15th century and comes to us through Middle English from the Anglo-French verb reduter, meaning "to dread." That word comes ultimately from Latin dubitare, "to be in doubt" (by way of Anglo-French duter, douter, meaning "to doubt," also the source of English doubt). Things or people that are formidable and alarming can also inspire awe and even admiration, and it wasn't long before the meaning of redoubtable was extended from "formidable" to "illustrious" and "worthy of respect."
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Examples of redoubtable in a Sentence
Helen Shaw, The New Yorker, 19 Sep. 2024
The author relates the famous episode that followed the redoubtable Gen. John Pershing’s inspection of the division in which Marshall was serving.
—Barbara Spindel, The Christian Science Monitor, 6 June 2024
Now 30, Can has been a central figure in Dortmund’s improbable run to the Champions League final, acting as a redoubtable presence in midfield, an occasional reinforcement in defense, and a composed, charismatic leader.
—Rory Smith, New York Times, 31 May 2024
Tis time round, however, plot driver is the sudden dependence of a a redoubtable mother, portrayed by Adrian Ozores, who won a best supporting actress award.
—John Hopewell, Variety, 9 Mar. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Redoubtable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redoubtable. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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redoubtable
adjective
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