heroism
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of heroism
Explanation
When you think of heroism, you might think of great acts of bravery, such as rushing into burning buildings and facing danger in battle. Heroism consists of putting others first, even at your own peril. The noun heroism comes from the Greek hērōs, which referred to a demigod. As someone who shows great courage and valor is referred to as a hero, their actions are considered to be acts of heroism. 19th Century lawyer Robert Green Ingersoll said it well: “When the will defies fear, when duty throws the gauntlet down to fate, when honor scorns to compromise with death — that is heroism.”
Vocabulary lists containing heroism
Veterans Day Vocabulary
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Vocabulary about elements of an epic
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"The Necklace" and "The Fashion Show"
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But if you’re a fan of his brand of slightly unconvinced heroism, John Carpenter’s horror movie — about an insurance investigator on the hunt for a missing Stephen King-like author — is an enjoyable watch.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 13, 2026
"It was really important for her to know that bravery and heroism started with her - when there wasn't anyone else there, and nobody was able to come to help her," her mum said.
From BBC ● May 22, 2026
"We're so proud of him... I see messages about him, literally from all over the world, talking about his heroism."
From Barron's ● May 19, 2026
That is certainly true of Quincy’s statues of Florian and Michael, who have long been symbols of the heroism and sacrifice of firefighters and other first responders.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 4, 2026
That’s something we should never forget; while others display their heroism in battle or against the Germans, our helpers prove theirs every day by their good spirits and affection.
From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
