Mĕt'tle, n.

(mĕt'tl), n. [Eng. metal, Fr. métal, Lat. metallum, used in a tropical sense. See METAL.]

1. That which goes to form any thing; element; material. Shak.
2. That temperament which is susceptible of high excitement; constitutional ardor; spirit. “Gentlemen of brave mettle.” Shak. “A spirit of the greatest size and divinest mettle.” Milton.

The winged courser, like a generous horse. Shows most true mettle when you check his course. Pope.