gumption

/ˈgʌm(p)ʃən/

Other forms: gumptions

If you have gumption, you have guts. People with gumption are determined and full of courage — and common sense, too.

If you easily give up, and don't have a lot of confidence or smarts, then you are lacking in gumption. It takes gumption to get things done — especially difficult things. Someone who takes risks without being afraid has gumption. Having gumption is like having "chutzpah." We all could probably use more gumption. Like common sense, it isn't that common.

Definitions of gumption

1. noun

   fortitude and determination
   synonyms: backbone, grit, guts, moxie, sand

   type of:

   fortitude

   strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage
2. noun

   sound practical judgment
   synonyms: common sense, good sense, horse sense, mother wit, sense

   types:

   logic

   reasoned and reasonable judgment

   nous

   common sense

   road sense

   good judgment in avoiding trouble or accidents on the road

   type of:

   discernment, judgement, judgment, sagaciousness, sagacity

   the mental ability to understand and discriminate between relations