gut check

noun

: a test or assessment of courage, character, or determination

Examples of gut check in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Visions of a council of trusted Star Twins formed in my head – a gut check from the great beyond! Jessie Rosen, People.com, 3 May 2025 James did not comment on the Lakers’ struggles at center following the trade but provided a gut check to the front office. Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 1 May 2025 The dynamism of air combat, where split-second gut checks translate to kill or be killed. Colin Demarest, Axios, 2 Apr. 2025 Recessions are a gut check for small business owners. Melissa Houston, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gut check

Word History

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gut check was in 1963

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gut check.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gut%20check. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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