Met"tle (?), 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. Gentlemen of brave mettle. Shak.
The winged courser, like a generous horse,
Shows most true mettle when you check his course. Pope. To put one one's mettle, to cause or incite one to
use one's best efforts.
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