heroine

noun

her·​o·​ine ˈher-ə-wən  ˈhir- 

ˈhe-rə-

1

a

: a mythological or legendary woman often of divine descent having great strength or ability

b

: a woman admired and emulated for her achievements and qualities

American heroines such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Rosa Parks

remembered as the heroine of the flood

2

a

: the principal female character in a literary or dramatic work

the heroine of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

b

: the central female figure in an event or period

Examples of heroine in a Sentence

The town remembered her as the heroine of the flood and erected a statue in her honor.

Recent Examples on the Web

At the end of the story, the reader catches a glimpse of the heroine at 40. —Rachel Gordan, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2025

All well and good, but time, and the intensive research that fascination with Breton’s account and its heroine has inspired, have also laid bare some problematic aspects. —Mark Polizzoti june 16, Literary Hub, 16 June 2025

Later, her comments about the old-fashioned portrayal of the original Disney heroine and her public support for Palestinian rights also prompted criticism. —Sarah Crompton, Vogue, 16 June 2025

Included are all of She-Ra's signature accessories — a satiny white dress, gold boots, winged headpiece and flowing red cape, plus her Sword of Protection — celebrating the legendary heroine's place as a novel princess and now a member of the Barbie Universe. —Angela Andaloro, People.com, 13 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin heroina, from Greek hērōinē, feminine of hērōs

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for heroine

• heroin

Kids Definition

heroine

noun

her·​o·​ine ˈher-ə-wən 

1

: a woman in legends or myths who has great courage and daring

2

: a woman admired for her achievements and qualities

3

: the chief female figure in a literary work or in an event or period