sisu

Definition

Strength of will in the face of adversity; grit; perseverance; determination; regarded as an integral part of Finnish culture.

Etymology

Borrowed from Finnish sisu, documented in English since at least 1940.

Example Sentences

• "Last week the Finns gave the world a good example of sisu by carrying the war into Russian territory on one front while on another they withstood merciless attacks by a reinforced Russian Army."
• "People living in northern climates need plenty of sisu."
• "We agreed there was a pressing need for a systematic investigation of sisu, how Finns think about it, how it is propagated."