patriotism

[pey-tree-uh-tiz-uhm, pa-]

noun

1. devoted love, support, and defense of one's country; national loyalty.

patriotism

/ ˈpætrɪəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. devotion to one's own country and concern for its defence Compare nationalism

Other Word Forms

• antipatriotism noun
• hyperpatriotism noun
• overpatriotism noun
• propatriotism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of patriotism¹

First recorded in 1720–30; patriot + -ism

Example Sentences

Even so, scholars say Beijing remains cautious about how to harness populist patriotism without triggering excessive outbursts of sentiment or undermining the party’s authority.

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Detractors like Lewandowski and Johnson want to make English being Bad Bunny’s second language an indictment of his patriotism, as if growing up speaking English is a criterion for citizenship.

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The prime minister used his keynote speech to cast Nigel Farage's movement as practising the "politics of grievance" and to position Labour as the party of "tolerant, decent" patriotism.

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There's been a lot of debate about patriotism and national flags - and what they represent - ahead of and during the conference.

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There is palpably high morale, driven by a deep sense of patriotism, and probable relief at getting out of their prison cells.

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Related Words

• loyalty 
• nationalism