When someone acts braver, tougher, or more confident than they actually feel, that's bravado. It's a bold front you put on to hide nervousness, fear, or uncertainty.

Picture a student who's anxious about giving a speech but walks to the front of the room with exaggerated swagger, speaking louder and more boldly than necessary. That's bravado: confidence as performance rather than genuine feeling. A kid might respond to a bully with bravado, puffing up and talking big to mask being scared. An athlete might display bravado before a big game, making bold predictions to hide doubts about their team's chances.

Sometimes bravado serves a purpose: it can help you push through a scary situation or discourage someone from picking on you. But it can also backfire, making you seem arrogant or foolish when the tough talk doesn't match reality.