Heroism

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈhɛɹəʊɪzəm/

Definitions

1. The quality of showing great bravery or noble qualities, especially in difficult or dangerous situations
2. The characteristic of acting with exceptional courage and selflessness, often admired in challenging circumstances
3. The demonstration of bold and honorable conduct, typically recognized during times of adversity or risk

Etymology: "Heroism" is a plain formation: the noun "hero" with the suffix "-ism", which turns a person into a quality or behaviour, as in "patriotism" or "realism." The suffix "-ism" came into English from Greek through Latin and French, and it attaches to all sorts of nouns to name a doctrine, practice, or trait. The English noun arrived by way of French "héroïsme," which was built on the same stem as "hero." That "hero" is itself a borrowing from Latin "heros," taken from Greek "hērōs," a term for the demigod-warriors of myth and legend, such as the defenders of Troy in Homer's epics. Over time the word shifted from a figure of semi-divine or legendary stature to any person who displays bravery, so "heroism" follows the same path, moving from a quality of mythic warriors to an admired trait anyone might show.

Synonyms: bravery, courage, valor, gallantry, nobility

Antonyms: cowardice, fearfulness, timidity, impotence, weakness