Valiant means brave and determined, especially when facing something difficult or dangerous. A valiant knight in an old tale fights fearlessly to protect others. A valiant firefighter rushes into a burning building to save people trapped inside. The word describes someone who shows courage even when they're scared or when success seems unlikely.

What makes someone valiant is bravery combined with noble purpose. You might make a valiant effort to finish a challenging project even when you're exhausted, or mount a valiant defense of a friend being treated unfairly. A sports team staging a comeback in the final minutes shows valiant determination.

The word carries an old-fashioned, almost heroic quality. We don't usually say someone made a valiant attempt to find the TV remote. We save valiant for moments that matter: when someone pushes through real difficulty or danger for something important. A valiant person doesn't give up easily, and they're willing to take risks or face hardship for what they believe is right.