HEROISM Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

heroism

noun

ˈher-ə-ˌwi-zəm

Definition of heroism

as in courage

strength of mind to carry on in spite of danger the inspiring heroism of the firefighters who risked their lives to save the people trapped in the burning building

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of heroism The major’s heroism was touted in news reports, opinion pieces, podcasts, and on social media. — Ethan Rocke, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026 These narratives portray open-water swimming not as heroism but as healing and empowerment. — Literary Hub, 19 Aug. 2026 And yet, there the fans were, rally caps on, ready to believe in another mighty comeback—to read heroism into a story that could also be told, perhaps more accurately, in terms of swing decisions and contact points. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026 This reflects that sustainable organizations are built around core values and people who embody them consistently, not around individual heroism. — Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for heroism

Recent Examples of Synonyms for heroism

Noun

If the old Ernest Hemingway adage holds true, that courage equals grace under pressure, then Anna May Wong (1905-1961) had it in spades.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Sep. 2026
Looking back, Branagh says aside from speaking with Filkins, the film gave him a deeper appreciation of the courage required to listen and to hear and to stay in the room.

— Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of courage

Noun

In World Cup lore, however, his gallantry is doomed to be overshadowed by that of his fellow-goalkeeper from Cabo Verde, Vozinha, who had already produced an uncanny impersonation of a brick wall on the fourth day of the tournament.

— Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 17 July 2026
In all of these cases, the effect is largely the same—forging intimacy through some level of generosity or gallantry, coupled with pure, physical proximity—and in 2026, all of them are still technically possible.

— Sara Delgado, Vogue, 9 July 2026

Definition of gallantry

Noun

The Navy is reportedly planning to recommend Miller’s name for the Medal of Honor—the country’s highest military decoration for acts of valor—although the final award would need to be approved by Congress.

— Siladitya Ray, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
In 2024, high-ranking military officers told the Orlando Sentinel that Mills’ actual record doesn’t fit his claims of valor.

— Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of valor

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heroinisms

heroism

heroize

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“Heroism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/heroism. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of heroism

noun

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