patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
 chiefly British  ˈpa-
: love for or devotion to one's country
Although poles apart ideologically, they are both unashamed of their patriotism.Christopher Hemphill

Examples of patriotism in a Sentence

You may not agree with him politically, but no one can question his patriotism. They supported the war with a fierce patriotism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And one of the things that is really striking is the low price that a lot of Americans are willing to sell their patriotism for and their allegiance for. Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2025 His life was rooted in devotion to public service, patriotism, a love of the law, and a passion for education. Dara Kam, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 May 2025 The 76 gasoline brand, after all, evokes the patriotism of 1776 — a clever marketing ploy. Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025 Leon’s Triathlon is a 42-year-old area tradition that pays tribute to patriotism and sports. Deborah Laverty, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for patriotism

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patriotism was in 1716

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Cite this Entry

“Patriotism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patriotism. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

patriotism

noun
pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌtiz-əm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
: love of one's own country

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