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

And, for Arnold Roma, in the fight to keep Keith’s heroism alive. — Danya Gainor, CNN Money, 11 Sep. 2026

Today, Crowther's story of heroism is told to children across the country to help teach them about the terror attacks. — Miles J. Herszenhorn, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2026

Dawadi’s quick thinking and swift response during the disaster have been hailed as an act of heroism. — Shonal Ganguly, Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026

Against expectation, the film eschews neat narratives about survival and heroism. — Beatrice Loayza, Variety, 21 Aug. 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