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

Decisions to reopen were ones of bravery, solidarity, and patriotism. — Lucy Abbersteen, Allure, 9 Oct. 2026

Amid the backlash, the White House has defended the television spots as public service announcements meant to educate voters and promote patriotism. — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 6 Oct. 2026

Messi’s quiet reserve, so at odds with Maradona’s defiant swagger, fueled doubts about his patriotism. — ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026

Messi's quiet reserve, so at odds with Maradona's defiant swagger, fueled doubts about his patriotism. — CBS News, 6 Oct. 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