heroism

[her-oh-iz-uhm]

noun

1. the qualities or attributes of a hero or heroine.

   He showed great heroism in battle.

   Synonyms: fortitude, daring, courage, bravery, gallantry, prowess, valor, intrepidity
   Antonyms: timidity, cowardice

2. heroic conduct; courageous action.

   Pat's returning into the burning building was true heroism.

heroism

/ ˈhɛrəʊˌɪzəm /

noun

1. the state or quality of being a hero

Word History and Origins

Origin of heroism¹

1660–70; hero + -ism; compare French héroïsme

Example Sentences

It is, in some ways, the most pernicious because it strays far afield from direct claims of military and political heroism to celebrate a scientist, a profession built around facts.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Since “The Empire Strikes Back,” the movies have swung between messianic heroism and a more accommodating vision of how revolutions really happen.

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Defying this power discrepancy is the source of both hubris and heroism in the protagonists of classical tragedy.

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There is mourning for the dead, horror at the survivors’ suffering, and gratitude for the heroism of those who gave their lives in Israel’s defense after the attacks.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Kōrero is an ordinary rural girl who rises to heroism in a manner worthy of Tolkien.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• boldness 
• courage 
• daring 
• fearlessness www.thesaurus.com
• fortitude 
• gallantry 
• nobility 
• prowess 
• spirit 
• valor