patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
 chiefly British  ˈpa-
: love for or devotion to one's country
Although poles apart ideologically, they are both unashamed of their patriotism.Christopher Hemphill

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
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This included studies on the attitudes of Russians toward their homeland in relation to the rest of the world—the sources of Russian patriotism, attitudes toward authority, and how Russians felt about the suppression of individual freedom. Time, 20 May 2025 Imagine a world where treating each other with dignity is a mark of patriotism, a measure of our national well-being and an indicator of future potential. Timothy Shriver, Twin Cities, 14 May 2025 Courtney Reed/Courtesy of National Medal of Honor Museum What is the state of values of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism in today’s America compared to previous decades and earlier generations? Stephen Humphries, Christian Science Monitor, 30 Apr. 2025 Yet readers who believe not only that historical accuracy and patriotism are compatible but also that acknowledging the complexity of the Revolution increases rather than diminishes the American victory need not dismay. Amy S. Greenberg, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for patriotism

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patriotism was in 1716

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Cite this Entry

“Patriotism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patriotism. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

patriotism

noun
pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌtiz-əm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
: love of one's own country

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