obs. imp. of Mete, to dream. Chaucer. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ E. metal, used in a tropical sense in allusion to the temper of the metal of a sword blade. See Metal. ] Substance or quality of temperament; spirit, esp. as regards honor, courage, fortitude, ardor, etc.; disposition; -- usually in a good sense;
A certain critical hour which shall . . . try what mettle his heart is made of. South. [ 1913 Webster ]
Gentlemen of brave mettle. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
The winged courser, like a generous horse,
Shows most true mettle when you check his course. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ]
To put one one's mettle,
a. Having mettle; high-spirited; ardent; full of fire. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. Full of spirit; possessing constitutional ardor; fiery;
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