'bravado' originates from Spanish, specifically the word 'bravada,' where 'bravo' meant 'brave.'

'bravada' transformed into the Italian word 'bravata,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bravado' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a brave or boastful act,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a show of boldness intended to impress or intimidate.'