Hello,
This is my first post here on the forum and I know it's already a much discussed topic, but I wanted to selfishly add my own opinion, of which I'm almost certain is not going to be a novel idea, given the long history of this discussion.
In considering what name would best be substituted for the archetype presently named "Tank", which we know to be more of a class role than an actual class fantasy or identity, the conclusion I came to was
Stoic.
Defined as: "a person who can endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining."
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm aware that tank players themselves will be the first to tell you when they think you've done something wrong, and, in that sense, the fact of being a non-complainer is not exactly apt to this description. However, I think as a whole, the usage of this word to describe an archetype that endures the brutal strikes and overwhelming ire of enemies, at the cost of their own vitality, in order to protect their party or raid from utter annihilation, does seem quite
Stoic to me.
As this word's usage as a noun is already established, I believe that applying it to a new terminology such as the naming of a class archetype is quite a reasonable path to tread, and that the name could be recognizable and distinct within a short period of adoption.
For visual reference this is what it would look like among the current roster of archetypes.
If you have tolerated reading this far, then you are a true
Stoic and I salute your bravery and fortitude.
