moxie

Moxie is a term used in several contexts, primarily as a slang expression and as a brand name.

In everyday language, moxie describes determination, nerve, or spirited confidence. The word originated in the United States around the early 20th century, deriving from the French word "moxie," itself possibly linked to the name of an English settler in the American Southwest. The term gained popularity in the 1920s when it was used in advertising slogans to promote perseverance and ingenuity. Today, moxie is incorporated into phrases such as "the moxie to do something" and is often used in motivational contexts.

Moxie is also the name of an American beverage brand founded in 2005 by John De La Croix. The product line originally focused on an alcohol‑free malt beverage flavored with stevia and natural fruit essences, marketed as a “healthy soda alternative.” The original Moxie beverage was later rebranded as “Moxie by Moxie,” though the company has gradually expanded its portfolio to include options such as sparkling water and flavored kombucha. The Moxie brand has positioned itself on the foundation of health and wellness, promoting products free of artificial sweeteners and preservatives, and targeting consumers who prioritize balanced nutrition.

The name has been adopted by other products and organizations, such as a New York‑based graphic design firm called Moxie Media, a television competition show titled Moxie in several international markets, and a campus‑based student collective known as the Moxie Club in certain universities.

Because the word “moxie” can denote both an abstract personal characteristic and specific commercial entities, context is essential for determining which meaning applies. The term typically appears in product naming, motivational literature, and mainstream media, signifying either spirited confidence or a brand identity built around vitality and originality.