# heroism

/ˈhɛɹoʊˌɪzəm/ (US) · /hˈɛɹəʊˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heroism
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

great bravery or courage, especially when someone puts themselves in danger to help others. It is the quality that makes someone a hero.

For teachers: great bravery or self-sacrifice, typically displayed in the face of danger or adversity. Refers to the qualities or conduct characteristic of a hero.

## Examples

- The firefighter received a medal for his heroism during the blaze.
- The documentary explores the quiet heroism of ordinary citizens who risked their lives to hide refugees during the war.
- While we often associate heroism with grand physical feats on the battlefield, it can also manifest as the moral courage required to speak truth to power in a repressive society.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in the abstract sense and does not take a plural form.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.