ENGLISH
REFERENCE

patriotism

n.
US //ˈpeɪtɹiəˌtɪzəm// UK //pˈætɹɪətˌɪzəm// pa·tri·o·tism
  1. 1 love of country (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the feeling of love and pride you have for your country and the desire to support it.

    the quality of being patriotic; devotion to and vigorous support for one's country. Uncountable in its general sense.

    Example

    The soldiers were motivated by a deep sense of patriotism and duty.

    Example

    Critics argued that the politician was using empty displays of patriotism to distract the public from failing domestic policies.
  2. 2 nationalism (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    a strong belief that your country is better or more important than others.

    an intense form of national pride that may include a desire to compete with or dominate other nations. Often carries a more critical or political nuance than simple affection for a homeland.

    Example

    In some cases, extreme patriotism can lead to tension between different countries.

    Example

    The historian distinguished between civic patriotism, based on shared values, and the aggressive patriotism that often fuels border disputes.

    Usage

    Often used with adjectives like 'blind', 'aggressive', or 'unquestioning' when describing this more intense version.
    • internationalism
    • cosmopolitanism
Origin

From patriot + -ism.

© 2026 English Reference