Synonyms for

Heroism

Verb / ˈherəʊˌɪzʌm / Another word for heroism — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Heroism means showing bravery and courage in difficult or dangerous situations.

Synonyms & similar words

valorousness valiance valor valour gallantry valiancy bravery valor courage gallantry daring fearlessness intrepidity audacity boldness fortitude nobility chivalry sacrifice magnanimity nerve pluck resolution selflessness stoutness valiancy

Synonyms by register

Formal

valor bravery courage audacity

Informal

guts nerve pluck moxie

Literary

valiance prowess gallantry

Antonyms

cowardice timidity fearfulness spinelessness pusillanimity cravenness

Common collocations

  • act of heroism
  • display of heroism
  • true heroism
  • everyday heroism
  • moment of heroism
  • heroism in the face of adversity
  • acts of heroism

Word family

noun heroism
verb heroize
adjective heroic
adverb heroically

Usage note

Heroism often implies a significant act of bravery, especially in the face of danger or adversity. It is generally a positive term, though it can sometimes be used ironically.

Example sentences

  1. The firefighter showed heroism when he ran into the burning building to save the family.
  2. The soldier's heroism in battle earned him a medal of honor.
  3. The little boy's heroism was praised when he saved his sister from a dog attack.
  4. The movie was about the heroism of a group of people who risked their lives to save others during a natural disaster.
  5. The teacher praised the student's heroism when he stood up to a bully.

Quotes

  • Heroism is not only in the man, but in the occasion. - Calvin Coolidge
  • Heroism is endurance for one moment more. - George F. Kennan
  • True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost. - Arthur Ashe

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