(pronounced MEH-tehl)

Remember this word by thinking of its homophone: metal. Metal is strong and durable. Likewise, mettle is a noun meaning stamina or staying quality, as well as strength of temperament and spirit.

Example: Vickie knew that if by staying at the office until 2am three days in a row in order to complete the set of construction documents for her firm’s biggest boutique hotel project yet didn’t prove her mettle to her boss, then absolutely nothing would.