Sentence:  Though small and delicate-looking, she gave an impression of intense earnestness and latent toughness, qualities that stood her in good <WSD>stead</WSD> when she dared to challenge the most intrusive communist society in eastern Europe. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  An emotional or circumstantial "place" having specified advantages, qualities etc. (now only in phrases). (from 15thc.)