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

• courage
• bravery
• gallantry
• courageousness
• prowess
• valor

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

Even murder can be recast as heroism. —Jonathan Alpert, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025

Last year, Marino recalled the story of her father’s heroism to the New York Post. —Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 1 Sep. 2025

Acts of heroism Minneapolis doctors and law enforcement echoed Merkel’s sentiment throughout the day on Thursday, describing the grueling escape children and teachers endured, as well as the heroic rescue efforts that saved countless lives. —Safiyah Riddle, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2025

He was then honorably discharged, with countless salutations and medals for his heroism. —Curtis Bunn, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1672, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for heroism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism

Kids Definition

heroism

noun

her·​o·​ism ˈher-ə-ˌwiz-əm 

 also  ˈhir-

: heroic conduct or qualities