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 of heroism

• 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

But there were limits to what the British believed heroism would look like in the face of the enemy. —Literary Hub, 16 June 2026

The best customer experience in a staffing shortage is not created by employee heroism but by a radically simplified service system. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

New York City is awash in a multitude of World Cup 2026 events in all five boroughs, many of them hosted by cultural institutions eager to introduce fans to the history, heroism and passion of the game. —Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 10 June 2026

Cited for heroism Three Zion police officers were recently cited for heroism as they were honored as Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor winners. —Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1672, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for heroism

• ism
• prism
• schism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism
• anticommunism
• antisemitism
• antiterrorism
• bioterrorism
• colloquialism
• colonialism

Kids Definition

heroism

noun

her·​o·​ism ˈher-ə-ˌwiz-əm 

also ˈhir-

: heroic conduct or qualities