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

His portrayal of King T’Challa in Black Panther turned him into a global symbol of heroism, pride, and representation — a legacy that continues to inspire millions. —Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 13 Nov. 2025

Union officers appreciated Smalls’s extraordinary abilities and the power of his heroism. —Big Think, 13 Nov. 2025

He was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism and was involved in the first flag raising on Mount Suribachi. —Alexandra Rockey Fleming, PEOPLE, 12 Nov. 2025

At a news conference the next day at Metro Hall, Greenberg and McGarvey say the employees recounted stories of heroism, including those who are credited with saving colleagues. —Monroe Trombly, Louisville Courier Journal, 10 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