Emily Dickinson Lexicon

temerity, n. [L. temeritas.] (webplay: rashness).

1. Unstoppable force; [fig.] ravages of time; dissolution due to ageing.
2. Perseverance; persistence; tenacity.
3. Assertion; boldness; audacity.
4. Shock; travesty; appalling reality; unjust sentence.
5. Obstinacy; spirited stubbornness.