heroism

noun

her·​o·​ism ˈher-ə-ˌwi-zəm 

ˈhe-rə-,

 also  ˈhir-

1

: heroic conduct especially as exhibited in fulfilling a high purpose or attaining a noble end

2

: the qualities of a hero

Synonyms

• bottle [British slang]
• bravery
• courage
• courageousness
• daring
• daringness
• dauntlessness
• doughtiness
• fearlessness
• gallantry
• greatheartedness
• guts
• gutsiness
• hardihood
• heart
• intestinal fortitude
• intrepidity
• intrepidness
• moxie
• nerve
• pecker [chiefly British]
• prowess
• stoutness
• valor
• virtue

Examples of heroism in a Sentence

women who showed heroism by fighting for their right to vote

the inspiring heroism of the firefighters who risked their lives to save the people trapped in the burning building

Recent Examples on the Web

Rod's rescue of his ex-wife appeared to be an act of heroism. —Michael Loftus, CBS News, 13 Dec. 2024

Few actors make self-torture feel like a kind of heroism. 27. —Tim Grierson, Vulture, 24 Nov. 2024

This type of story is meant to instill within us a sense of right and wrong, of the importance of friendship and camaraderie, and inspire us with tales of heroism and self-sacrifice. —Erik Kain, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024

The film embraces heroism in the face of an oppressive regime, the strength of fraternal ties and the themes of love, betrayal, morality and hope. —Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1672, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

heroism

noun

her·​o·​ism ˈher-ə-ˌwiz-əm 

 also  ˈhir-

: heroic conduct or qualities