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

Wars, no matter how horrible, are occasions to reaffirm national identity, a chance to prove heroism and moral resolve. —Literary Hub, 9 Dec. 2025

Many of Cena’s recent career turns have leaned into anti-heroism, even unlikability. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2025

This inspiring event honors ordinary people with extraordinary courage for acts of heroism and humanitarian service. —San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025

As a result, everyone else was able to safely return home, and Dustin told the story of Eddie’s heroism to Eddie’s uncle, knowing the rest of the town still thinks Eddie is a villain and responsible for several deaths in Hawkins. —Jennifer Maas, Variety, 26 Nov. 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