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.
© Webster 1913.