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

The crimes of Jedwabne, rupturing historical narratives that centered solely on the victimhood and heroism of Poles under the Nazis, became a symbol of Polish complicity in the Holocaust. —Shira Li Bartov, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2026

If ‘The Pitt’ sprang from a desire to depict the heroism and empathy of healthcare workers on the front lines, the show has used the resulting goodwill to illustrate those qualities’ long-term toll. —Selome Hailu, Variety, 20 Apr. 2026

As a reward for his heroism, the dog also received plenty of treats from his family. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Apr. 2026

The ongoing spirit of the Maywood volunteers has sustained for history the heroism and sacrifice of the men of Company B — and of others like it. —Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026

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