To encounter with courage and fortitude, to defy, to provoke.
After braving tricks on the high-dive, he braved a jump off the first diving platform.
Strong in the face of fear; courageous.
Making a fine show or display.
Foolish or unwise.
To act in a tricky, inconstant way, saying one thing and doing another.
To be recklessly inaccurate, inappropriate, or otherwise ignoring guidelines and conventions.
To ignore proper behavior or social conventions, especially when it suits one's purpose.