patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌti-zəm 

chiefly British ˈpa-

: love for or devotion to one's country

Although poles apart ideologically, they are both unashamed of their patriotism.

—Christopher Hemphill

Synonyms of patriotism

• nationalism

Examples of patriotism in a Sentence

You may not agree with him politically, but no one can question his patriotism.

They supported the war with a fierce patriotism.

Recent Examples on the Web

John Saint Paul of Kansas City was dressed up as Uncle Sam, walking around with his head high and his patriotism on full throttle after the loss. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2026

Nonetheless, a presidential endorsement framed in patriotic language can’t hurt and may even help Walmart at a moment when patriotism is running high. — Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

The national team has restored what now almost feels like an anachronistic and dusty patriotism, built on the promise of a country for anyone who loves it. — Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 7 July 2026

Pochettino has been pushing patriotism and love for the national team badge since his arrival. — Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 5 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for patriotism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌtiz-əm 

: love of one's own country