'Wú dàn' is a classical Chinese compound meaning 'without dread' or 'unafraid'—it describes a state of fearless confidence, often in the face of danger, authority, or social expectation. The first character 无 (wú) means 'not' or 'without', and 惮 (dàn) means 'to fear', 'to dread', or 'to be apprehensive'. Together, they form a concise, literary expression emphasizing moral or psychological courage rather than mere physical boldness.

This term appears most frequently in formal writing, historical narratives, philosophical texts, and idiomatic expressions (e.g., in phrases like 无所畏惧、无惮于权势). It carries a slightly elevated, solemn register and is rarely used in casual speech. While it can describe individuals, it’s more commonly applied to actions, attitudes, or principles — such as speaking truth without fear of reprisal or acting with integrity despite opposition.