definition essay on the word hero

What is the Definition of a Hero?

This essay about the definition of a hero explores how contemporary understanding has evolved from ancient times to include not only legendary figures but also everyday individuals. It highlights that a hero exhibits traits such as courage, empathy, and resilience, engaging in acts that extend beyond the ordinary in pursuit of the greater good. The piece discusses the psychological attributes of heroes, their impact on society through inspirational deeds, and the role of narratives in shaping our perception of heroism. Ultimately, it argues that heroism is a universally accessible trait, urging recognition of heroic acts in daily life to foster a more proactive and supportive community.

How it works

In our exploration of the term “hero,” we often encounter diverse interpretations shaped by cultural, social, and personal perspectives. The word itself, derived from the Greek “h?r?s,” historically referred to characters of noble stature or divine origin who performed extraordinary feats. However, the modern definition of a hero is more nuanced and democratic, encompassing individuals from all walks of life who demonstrate courage, altruism, and the capacity to inspire others.

A hero is someone who confronts adversity or danger with a blend of courage, ingenuity, and strength.

Unlike the heroes of ancient myths who were often chosen by fate or birth, today’s heroes are ordinary people making choices that are extraordinary. They can be firefighters running into a burning building, activists standing up against injustice, or even a child standing up to a bully. Their actions are not just brave but also a profound testament to the human spirit’s capacity to do good.

The psychological makeup of a hero is complex. According to research in the field of psychology, heroes tend to exhibit high levels of empathy, a moral compass, and often, a sense of responsibility that compels them to act for the benefit of others. They are also resilient, able to recover and persist in the face of daunting challenges. This resilience supports them not only in their moment of heroism but throughout their lives, as they often continue to engage in selfless acts.

Furthermore, the impact of a hero’s actions extends beyond the immediate. A hero inspires others, setting a ripple effect in motion. Their deeds encourage others to act, fostering a community spirit and promoting collective action. For instance, when a public figure stands up for a cause, it can galvanize widespread support and action from the public. Similarly, when someone intervenes to help during a crisis, it can challenge bystanders’ passivity, inspiring them to adopt a more proactive stance in future situations.

Our understanding of what makes a hero can also be influenced by narrative and media. The stories we share about heroes, whether through books, movies, or oral traditions, shape our perceptions of heroism. These narratives can sometimes elevate a hero’s status, creating an idealized version that may be difficult for ordinary individuals to match. However, they also serve a vital function by highlighting the qualities that society values and wishes to promote.

In conclusion, the definition of a hero is as varied as humanity itself. It is not confined to the extraordinary individuals who perform feats of bravery in epic circumstances but is also applicable to everyday acts of kindness and courage. Heroes embody the best of what it means to be human, showing us that each of us has the potential to make a significant impact. Their stories inspire us not only to admire them but to act in ways that uphold the values they embody. Thus, a hero is not only someone who acts heroically but also someone who compels us to grow as individuals and as a community. This broader, more inclusive definition encourages us to find and celebrate heroism in unexpected places and people.

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Definition of Heroism Essay: Learn to Write by Example

By: Tasha Kolesnikova

In order to better understand the course of students' thoughts, their ideals, and goals, high school teachers often ask to write a definition of heroism essay. To evaluate the concept of "hero", you need to analyze a particular character's qualities. Don't worry if you don't know how to do it. In the following paragraphs, you will find useful tips for preparing and writing an essay.

Definition of Heroism Essay Sample

Choose a worthy example of a hero, essay structure.

Recently, the word "heroism" has become increasingly used. In the traditional sense, heroism is the highest manifestation of devotion and courage in public duty performance. A hero is a person who, for his achievements or qualities, is seen as an ideal, an example to follow. Who really deserves this high title - a true hero? I believe that only those people who can sacrifice themselves for the good of others become heroes. 

Heroism, in my opinion, is the highest manifestation of humanity. Only people with truly noble qualities, who have compassion and responsibility, are able to feel the plight of others and give their lives for the sake of others. But often, heroism is a reward for someone's imperfection, injustice.

We can recall many vivid examples of figurative coverage of this idea. One of the best among them is John Coffey, a tragic hero, the protagonist of Stephen King's novel The Green Mile. With the help of his gift, this man commits a heroic act - he tries to save two girls from death, although he himself may be suspected of murder. In the end, he is sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit, but on the side of this courageous and noble man - the truth and the reader's sympathy.

Acts of heroism are manifested in some unusual, special conditions in which the one who must instantly make his choice (and for this, he must be at least a decent person). It is a pity that such circumstances often arise as a result of the irresponsibility of those whose job it was to avoid such situations. Therefore, the inevitable tragedy of the victim, retribution for someone else's guilt is acutely felt in the heroic. Examples of this in history and in modern life as much as you want. Don't firefighters in Australia who risked their lives to save people and animals from a terrible fire deserve the title of heroes? And aren't the hundreds of doctors who are helping people who have been struck by the coronavirus pandemic at the cost of their own health a hero? Of course, they are real heroes - not from a book, not from a movie, but in real life.

Thus, only courageous and noble people are capable of heroism. It requires a willingness to make a choice in favor of those who need your efforts at an extremely important time. Of course, this is peculiar only to high moral people and is manifested in their actions not every day but in special tragic circumstances that require sacrifice.

How to Write a Definition of Heroism Essay

This type of paper requires you to personally interpret a separate concept. The concept of heroism makes it possible to write an interesting and extensive essay-definition. Next, we talk in more detail about what to keep in mind when writing a definition of heroism essay.

We consider the heroes of those people or characters who, in our opinion, correspond to the "heroic" qualities of character traits. Some believe that heroes can be ordinary people who possess such qualities as selflessness, devotion, and courage. Others are convinced that true heroic qualities can be inherent only in Marvel superheroes. In your essay, you should set a good example of those you consider heroes.

An interesting example of an epic hero is Odysseus. Thanks to his intelligence and observation, he saves his crew, showing responsibility for its fate. He is characterized by courage, bravery, and determination.

Another example of a heroic epic is Beowulf. As in every epoch, this hero is brave and unrestrained, fights with fears unarmed and ready to die, obeying fate.

History has given us the names of many heroes. One of them was Martin Luther King Jr., a well-known black rights activist. King inspired people with his speech and his thoughts on the just and peaceful coexistence of people of different skin colors. Many people around the world still follow his ideas.

The worldview of Martin Luther King was greatly influenced by the ideas of another hero - Mahatma Gandhi. He professed the principles of nonviolence and commitment to the truth. He has the saying, "Truth is God."

If fictional characters inspire you with superpowers, then good examples of modern heroes can be even Batman or Superman, who constantly save the world.

Start by defining the concept.  In the introduction, you should give the traditional definition of a hero. In this way, you will create a context and give the reader an initial understanding of the word. Then describe the term in your own words in the thesis statement. It is important to start with something exciting to get the reader's attention.

Tell about your hero in the body of the essay.  What makes a hero famous? That's right - his heroic deeds. So in the main part of the essay, choose your example of a real hero and describe his actions that inspired you. If you want to illustrate your vision of defining a hero on the example of several characters - write about each of them in a separate paragraph. A few quotes can enrich your text.

Begin each paragraph with a thematic sentence. How to write these sentences? Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the dictionary definition of the term "hero"? Perform your assignment, supporting the idea with the names of legendary figures.
• What character traits do you consider heroic? Virtue, courage, self-sacrifice - analyze in detail each manifestation of these traits.
• Why do you consider this or that person a hero? Obviously, because they have "heroic" traits.

Conclude with a summary of the main points.  Review the topic sentences of each paragraph. They can be a good way to draw conclusions. You can also complete the essay by referring to the thesis in the introduction. If your hero essay has affected your life, the conclusion is just a good place to mention it. Write about this experience briefly and succinctly.

Check out our other web pages for more  essay help  and  essay editing . Alternatively, you may wish to use our  proofreading services  for polishing and perfecting your essay to give you that extra grade boost!

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Definition Essay

Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

14 min read

Published on: Oct 9, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Many students struggle with writing definition essays due to a lack of clarity and precision in their explanations.

This obstructs them from effectively conveying the essence of the terms or concepts they are tasked with defining. Consequently, the essays may lack coherence, leaving readers confused and preventing them from grasping the intended meaning.

But don’t worry!

In this guide, we will delve into effective techniques and step-by-step approaches to help students craft an engaging definition essay.

Continue reading to learn the correct formation of a definition essay. 

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What is a Definition Essay?

Just as the name suggests, a definition essay defines and explains a term or a concept. Unlike a narrative essay, the purpose of writing this essay is only to inform the readers.

Writing this essay type can be deceivingly tricky. Some terms, concepts, and objects have concrete definitions when explained. In contrast others are solely based on the writer’s understanding and point of view.

A definition essay requires a writer to use different approaches when discussing a term. These approaches are the following:

• Denotation - It is when you provide a literal or academic definition of the term.
• Connotation - It is when the writer provides an implied meaning or definition of the term.
• Enumeration - For this approach, a list is employed to define a term or a concept.
• Analogy - It is a technique in which something is defined by implementing a comparison.
• Negation - It is when you define a term by stating what it is not.

A single or combination of approaches can be used in the essay. 

Definition Essay Types

There are several types of definition essays that you may be asked to write, depending on the purpose and scope of the assignment. 

In this section, we will discuss some of the most common types of definition essays.

Descriptive Definition Essay 

This type of essay provides a detailed description of a term or concept, emphasizing its key features and characteristics. 

The goal of a descriptive definition essay is to help readers understand the term or concept in a more profound way.

Stipulative Definition Essay 

In a stipulative definition essay, the writer provides a unique definition of a term or concept. This type of essay is often used in academic settings to define a term in a particular field of study. 

The goal of a stipulative definition essay is to provide a precise and clear definition that is specific to the context of the essay.

Analytical Definition Essay 

This compare and contrast essay type involves analyzing a term or concept in-depth. Breaking it down into its component parts, and examining how they relate to each other. 

The goal of an analytical definition essay is to provide a more nuanced and detailed understanding of the term or concept being discussed.

Persuasive Definition Essay 

A persuasive definition essay is an argumentative essay that aims to persuade readers to accept a particular definition of a term or concept.

The writer presents their argument for the definition and uses evidence and examples to support their position.

Explanatory Definition Essay 

An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay . It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader. 

The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.

Extended Definition Essay 

An extended definition essay goes beyond the definition of a word or concept and provides a more in-depth analysis and explanation. 

The goal of an extended definition essay is to provide a comprehensive understanding of a term, concept, or idea. This includes its history, origins, and cultural significance. 

How to Write a Definition Essay?

Writing a definition essay is simple if you know the correct procedure. This essay, like all the other formal pieces of documents, requires substantial planning and effective execution.

The following are the steps involved in writing a definition essay effectively:

Instead of choosing a term that has a concrete definition available, choose a word that is complicated . Complex expressions have abstract concepts that require a writer to explore deeper. Moreover, make sure that different people perceive the term selected differently. 

Once you have a word to draft your definition essay for, read the dictionary. These academic definitions are important as you can use them to compare your understanding with the official concept.

Drafting a definition essay is about stating the dictionary meaning and your explanation of the concept. So the writer needs to have some information about the term.

In addition to this, when exploring the term, make sure to check the term’s origin. The history of the word can make you discuss it in a better way.

Coming up with an exciting title for your essay is important. The essay topic will be the first thing that your readers will witness, so it should be catchy.

Creatively draft an essay topic that reflects meaning. In addition to this, the usage of the term in the title should be correctly done. The readers should get an idea of what the essay is about and what to expect from the document.

Now that you have a topic in hand, it is time to gather some relevant information. A definition essay is more than a mere explanation of the term. It represents the writer’s perception of the chosen term and the topic.

So having only personal opinions will not be enough to defend your point. Deeply research and gather information by consulting credible sources.

The gathered information needs to be organized to be understandable. The raw data needs to be arranged to give a structure to the content.

Here's a generic outline for a definition essay:

Are you searching for an in-depth guide on crafting a well-structured definition essay?Check out this definition essay outline blog!

6. Write the First Draft

Drafting each section correctly is a daunting task. Understanding what or what not to include in these sections requires a writer to choose wisely.

The start of your essay matters a lot. If it is on point and attractive, the readers will want to read the text. As the first part of the essay is the introduction , it is considered the first impression of your essay.

To write your definition essay introduction effectively, include the following information:

• Start your essay with a catchy hook statement that is related to the topic and the term chosen.
• State the generally known definition of the term. If the word chosen has multiple interpretations, select the most common one.
• Provide background information precisely. Determine the origin of the term and other relevant information.
• Shed light on the other unconventional concepts and definitions related to the term.
• Decide on the side or stance you want to pick in your essay and develop a thesis statement .

After briefly introducing the topic, fully explain the concept in the body section . Provide all the details and evidence that will support the thesis statement. To draft this section professionally, add the following information:

• A detailed explanation of the history of the term.
• Analysis of the dictionary meaning and usage of the term.
• A comparison and reflection of personal understanding and the researched data on the concept.

Once all the details are shared, give closure to your discussion. The last paragraph of the definition essay is the conclusion . The writer provides insight into the topic as a conclusion.

The concluding paragraphs include the following material:

• Summary of the important points.
• Restated thesis statement.
• A final verdict on the topic.

7. Proofread and Edit

Although the writing process ends with the concluding paragraph, there is an additional step. It is important to proofread the essay once you are done writing. Proofread and revise your document a couple of times to make sure everything is perfect.

Before submitting your assignment, make edits, and fix all mistakes and errors.

If you want to learn more about how to write a definition essay, here is a video guide for you!

Definition Essay Structure 

The structure of a definition essay is similar to that of any other academic essay. It should consist of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

However, the focus of a definition essay is on defining and explaining a particular term or concept. 

In this section, we will discuss the structure of a definition essay in detail.

Introduction 

Get the idea of writing an introduction for a definition essay with this example:

Body Paragraphs

Here is an example of how to craft your definition essay body paragraph:

Types of the Term/Concept 

If applicable, the writer may want to include a section that discusses the different types or categories of the term or concept being defined. 

This section should explain the similarities and differences between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate the points.

Examples of the Term/Concept in Action 

The writer should also include real-life examples of the term or concept being defined in action. 

This will help the reader better understand the term or concept in context and how it is used in everyday life.

Conclusion 

This example will help you writing a conclusion fo you essay:

Definition Essay Examples

It is important to go through some examples and samples before writing an essay. This is to understand the writing process and structure of the assigned task well.

Following are some examples of definition essays to give our students a better idea of the concept. 

Understanding the Definition Essay

Definition Essay Example

Definition Essay About Friendship

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Success Definition Essay

Beauty Definition Essay

Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the right topic is challenging for other essay types. However, picking a suitable theme for a definition essay is equally tricky yet important. Pick an interesting subject to ensure maximum readership.

If you are facing writer’s block, here is a list of some great definition essay topics for your help. Choose from the list below and draft a compelling essay.

• Authenticity
• Sustainability
• Mindfulness

Here are some more extended definition essay topics:

• Social media addiction
• Ethical implications of gene editing
• Personalized learning in the digital age
• Ecosystem services
• Cultural assimilation versus cultural preservation
• Sustainable fashion
• Gender equality in the workplace
• Financial literacy and its impact on personal finance
• Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
• Welfare state and social safety nets

Need more topics? Check out this definition essay topics blog!

Definition Essay Writing Tips

Knowing the correct writing procedure is not enough if you are not aware of the essay’s small technicalities. To help students write a definition essay effortlessly, expert writers of CollegeEssay.org have gathered some simple tips.

These easy tips will make your assignment writing phase easy.

• Choose an exciting yet informative topic for your essay.
• When selecting the word, concept, or term for your essay, make sure you have the knowledge.
• When consulting a dictionary for the definition, provide proper referencing as there are many choices available.
• To make the essay informative and credible, always provide the origin and history of the term.
• Highlight different meanings and interpretations of the term.
• Discuss the transitions and evolution in the meaning of the term in any.
• Provide your perspective and point of view on the chosen term.

Following these tips will guarantee you better grades in your academics.

By following the step-by-step approach explained in this guide, you will acquire the skills to craft an outstanding essay. 

Struggling with the thought, " write my college essay for m e"? Look no further.

Our dedicated definition essay writing service is here to craft the perfect essay that meets your academic needs.

For an extra edge, explore our AI essay writer , a tool designed to refine your essays to perfection. 

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Pop Culture

Heroic acts to protect the word 'hero'.

Linton Weeks

A True Hero? President Obama presents the Medal of Honor to Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta in the East Room of the White House last November. Asked if he's a hero, Giunta said, "I am only mediocre. I'm average, and by no means did I do anything that anyone else wouldn't have done in that situation." Courtesy of the White House hide caption

Has the word "hero" been so overused that it's losing its meaning?

These three recent examples show how people are employing the term. You decide if the usage is appropriate.

On CBS News, Melissa Castellanos tells viewers that "the Super Senior who bravely fought off jewel thieves with her handbag has been unmasked. She's [a] 71-year-old grandmother ... and she's being called a hero by her community."

On NBC's Today Show , Ann Curry says: "An elderly Memphis woman ordered a Domino's [pizza] every day for the past three years. But when her calls suddenly stopped, her regular delivery driver became concerned and took action, and now that delivery driver is being hailed a hero for saving that elderly woman's life."

According to CNN, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, who spent time in prison for animal abuse, "is being honored as a hero next month at a black-tie event in Norfolk, Va., for his 'resilience in overcoming obstacles' and becoming 'a true example of life success for all to emulate,' according to event organizers."

Are these people heroes?

More Than A Role Model

Though they may be exceptional people, they might not fit the definition of hero as determined by the Pittsburgh-based Carnegie Hero Fund Commission . "Since our establishment in 1904," says Executive Director Walter F. Rutkowski, "the commission has always applied a narrow definition — or more appropriately, a classic definition — to 'hero': someone who voluntarily leaves a point of safety to assume life risk to save or attempt to save the life of another."

What's A 'Hero'?

The Pittsburgh-based Carnegie Hero Fund Commission defines a hero as "someone who voluntarily leaves a point of safety to assume life risk to save or attempt to save the life of another."

But that definition is often broadened considerably. Among the people considered heroes today are athletes and Hollywood celebrities.

What's your definition of a hero? Tell us in the comments section below.

Other people who use the word "hero" may do so in different contexts, Rutkowski says, "but since we do not have exclusive rights to the word, it is counterproductive to cringe on hearing same. We know, and would prefer to see, that 'role model' or 'positive role model' is the more appropriate term for use in many of these contexts."

People do broaden the definition — and the list. Former Secretary of Education William Bennett, in his 1997 work The Children's Book of Heroes, includes exemplary figures, such as Abraham Lincoln, Jackie Robinson and Mother Teresa.

Retired shop teacher Don Jones, who maintains the USA Hero website , defines hero as "someone who acts to help another with no thought for herself or himself or someone who is admired for achievements or noble qualities." His roster includes poet Emily Dickinson, and actors Morgan Freeman and Jodie Foster.

Today we sometimes toss the word "hero" around without thinking much about it. We use it to name TV shows. We speak of a Hollywood celebrity as our childhood hero. Alan M. Webber, a founding editor of Fast Company magazine, offers a reason that we use the term so freely.

"I suspect that if the American public's nerves weren't quite so badly frayed by all the over-attention to bad behavior, if we weren't all addicted to a culture of celebrity and extreme amplification of every news story, in other words, if the whole country were only a little bit more sane," Webber writes on The Washington Post website, "then we'd have a more modulated reaction to most events, the good, the bad and the ugly. And we'd reserve the word 'hero' ... for actions and circumstances that actually merit their application."

So maybe we need a new word for that narrow definition of heroism. Truehero, perhaps. Or epichero.

'Threshold Of Heroism'

U.S. Army Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf once said that "it doesn't take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle."

And the German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said: "The hero draws inspiration from the virtue of his ancestors."

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Our ancestral heroes first appeared in the oral storytelling tradition. They were superhumans, almost gods, and the actions they took were mostly in the best interest of humankind. The dictionary traces the word's meaning from "a being of godlike prowess and beneficence" to "a warrior-chieftain of special strength, courage or ability" during the Homeric period of ancient Greece.

By the Encyclopaedia Britannica of 1911, the word had come to be applied "generally to all who were distinguished from their fellows by superior moral, physical or intellectual qualities."

Around that time, Pittsburgh steel magnate Andrew Carnegie set aside $5 million to recognize ordinary folks who perform extraordinary feats of heroism. In the ensuing years his Carnegie Hero Fund Commission has granted more than 9,400 awards — and nearly $33 million — to people who have risked their lives to save others.

The extraordinary exploits include pulling someone from a burning building, standing between someone and an attacking animal, rescuing a drowning swimmer, thwarting an assault on a citizen and other facing-death-to-save-a-life acts. About a fifth of the awards have been granted posthumously.

The 21-member commission is constantly receiving nominations for the next round of heroes. Another batch — of up to 23 heroes — is scheduled to be recognized on April 7.

What makes Rutkowski cringe is when "victims" are viewed as heroes, "such as when a threat is put upon a person who then combats it to save him/herself and while doing so saves others," he says.

As an example, Rutkowski points to US Airways Capt. Chesley Sullenberger, of Hudson River-landing fame. In a recent edition of the commission's newsletter, the group's president, Mark Laskow, wrote an essay about Sullenberger. In the article, Laskow quotes an interviewer from the Smithsonian Institution who asks Sullenberger, "What is your definition of a hero?"

Sullenberger replies: "My wife actually looked it up in the dictionary. We decided between ourselves that it describes someone who chooses to put himself at risk to save another."

US Airways pilot Chesley Sullenberger was hailed a hero by many after landing his disabled plane in the Hudson River. He, himself, though, says his actions don't meet the threshold of heroism . "Sometimes in our culture we overuse the word," he said, "and by overusing it we diminish it." Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images hide caption

He continues: "That didn't quite fit my situation, which was thrust upon me suddenly. Certainly, my crew and I were up to the task. But I'm not sure it quite crosses the threshold of heroism. I think the idea of a hero is important. But sometimes in our culture we overuse the word, and by overusing it we diminish it.'

When the engines stopped on US Airways Flight 1549 in January 2009, Laskow writes, "Capt. Sullenberger was not in a place of safety. On the contrary, he was in the same peril as the passengers whose lives he saved with his piloting skill. He did not have the opportunity to make a moral choice to take on the risk — it 'was thrust upon' him. I have no doubt that if he did have such a choice, he would not have hesitated to place himself in danger to save his passengers. That just wasn't the actual situation in which he found himself."

In addition to possessing fine piloting and philosophical skills, Laskow writes, Sullenberger "is admirably modest and self-aware. In the midst of continuing, well-earned acclaim for his cool competency, he took the measure of his act and demurred from the title 'hero.' "

And, in a broader sense of the word, that could be called heroic.

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Definition of hero

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of Hero  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of hero in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hero.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Latin heros , from Greek hērōs

Latin, from Greek Hērō

circa 1522, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hero

• hero sandwich
• hero worship

Articles Related to hero

Jedi: Now in a Galaxy Near You

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Dictionary Entries Near hero

Cite this entry.

“Hero.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hero. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of hero, biographical definition, biographical name, definition of hero, more from merriam-webster on hero.

Nglish: Translation of hero for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of hero for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hero

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[ heer -oh ]

He became a local hero when he saved the drowning child.

My older sister is my hero.

Entrepreneurs are our modern heroes.

This police dog hero was shot during the apprehension of a suspect.

Synonyms: star , lead

Antonyms: heavy , villain

• a being of godlike prowess and beneficence who often came to be honored as a divinity.
• (in the Homeric period) a warrior-chieftain of special strength, courage, or ability.
• (in later antiquity) an immortal being; demigod.
• hero sandwich ( def ) .
• the bread or roll used in making a hero sandwich.

A hero cat helped a firefighter spot a small child in a burning building.

Producing new hero content twice a year can help your brand grow.

Your hero product should be obvious on your website.

verb (used with object)

We hero the moms who were writing parenting guides and giving advice to new mothers.

Over the years, the judging panel has rightly heroed brands championing equal rights.

These dishes beautifully hero the fresh organic ginger.

• Classical Mythology. a priestess of Aphrodite who drowned herself after her lover Leander drowned while swimming the Hellespont to visit her.
• Also He·ron [ ] . Hero of Alexandria, flourished 1st century a.d., Greek scientist.

/ ˈhɪərəʊ /

• a man distinguished by exceptional courage, nobility, fortitude, etc
• a man who is idealized for possessing superior qualities in any field
• classical myth a being of extraordinary strength and courage, often the offspring of a mortal and a god, who is celebrated for his exploits
• the principal male character in a novel, play, etc
• Greek myth a priestess of Aphrodite, who killed herself when her lover Leander drowned while swimming the Hellespont to visit her
• Hero1st century1st centuryMGreekSCIENCE: mathematicianTECHNOLOGY: inventor 1st century ad , Greek mathematician and inventor

/ hē ′ rō /

• Greek mathematician who wrote on mechanics and invented many water-driven and steam-driven machines. He also developed a formula for determining the area of a triangle.

Gender Note

Other words from.

• he·ro·like adjective
• sub·he·ro noun plural subheroes
• un·he·ro noun plural unheroes
• un·he·ro·like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hero 1

Example Sentences

Moving into a new apartment is like playing hero to yourself.

The hoops intelligentsia has, for the most part, weighed the case for hero ball and ruled against it.

The three-part series is packed with horror and action and follows a demented Deadpool as he attempts to rid the Marvel universe of heroes.

In the newest phase of the crisis, it is less evident who the heroes are.

Our heroes are the ones who have walked intentionally toward social good, amplifying unheard voices and embracing inconvenience in exchange for more just outcomes for all.

His hero, Bruce Springsteen, is a gazillionaire, but he still manages to come across as a regular guy, so perception is reality.

My captain on the boat, Brazakka, he wanted me to do this Hemingway bit, with the white stubble, and he wanted the hero angle.

Selma becomes a biopic in which the hero shines while those who worked beside him are overlooked or relegated to the sidelines.

Sting took over the lead role to try to draw an audience, but his thumpingly inspirational score was already the hero of the show.

But you know, I had only one other hero in my life acting and that was River [Phoenix].

His hero, Gulliver, discovers race after race of beings who typify the genera in his classification of mankind.

General Lachambre, as the hero of Cavite, followed to receive the applause which was everywhere showered upon him in Spain.

El Imparcial maintained that he was worthy of being honoured as a 19th century conquering hero.

He stood, with the air of a hero, both arms extended towards the amazed pair of lovers.

Our hero smiled as he waved his hand to his companions, and, turning away, was soon lost to sight among the bushes.

Related Words

• good example
• person to look up to
• shining example

What Is The Plural Of Hero?

Plural word for  hero.

The plural form of the noun hero is heroes . The plurals of other singular words that end in -o are also formed in this way, including potato / potatoes , tomato / tomatoes , and echo / echoes . 

This can be confusing, because in some instances, words that end in -o are pluralized by simply adding an -s to the end, as in mango / mangos and flamingo / flamingos . However, the plural form heros is only valid when hero is used in the sense of a “hero sandwich.” This usage is very rare.

Look up a word, learn it forever.

Other forms: heroes; heros

Yes, a hero is a kind of sandwich. But when David Bowie sings, “We can be hero es,” he’s not talking about sandwiches. He’s talking about the more popular kind of hero — the kind who saves your life!

A hero is someone who does fantastic things that people love. The guy who rescues a skater from a frozen pond is a hero. A hero can be the main character of a story, too, if people root for him. Spiderman is the hero of the comic series: he's the central character, but he also saves people. The word hero goes back to the Greek, referring to a demigod.

• noun someone who fights for a cause synonyms: champion , fighter , paladin see more see less type of: defender , guardian , protector , shielder a person who cares for persons or property
• noun a person distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength “RAF pilots were the heroes of the Battle of Britain” see more see less examples: Arminius German hero; leader at the battle of Teutoburger Wald in AD 9 (circa 18 BC - AD 19) Job a Jewish hero in the Old Testament who maintained his faith in God in spite of afflictions that tested him type of: leader a person who rules or guides or inspires others
• noun (classical mythology) a being of great strength and courage celebrated for bold exploits; often the offspring of a mortal and a god see more see less type of: mythical being an imaginary being of myth or fable
• noun the principal character in a play or movie or novel or poem see more see less type of: character , part , persona , role , theatrical role an actor's portrayal of someone in a play
• noun a large sandwich made of a long crusty roll split lengthwise and filled with meats and cheese (and tomato and onion and lettuce and condiments); different names are used in different sections of the United States synonyms: Cuban sandwich , Italian sandwich , bomber , grinder , hero sandwich , hoagie , hoagy , poor boy , sub , submarine , submarine sandwich , torpedo , wedge , zep see more see less type of: sandwich two (or more) slices of bread with a filling between them

hero / protagonist

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Vocabulary lists containing hero

Marvel's Black Panther movie is the first blockbuster film to center on a black superhero. Here are some terms relating to T’Challa, a character who’s literally comic book royalty. Here's the full article: The Royal Lexicon of The Black Panther

Words shouldn’t be your kryptonite. Arm yourself with an indestructible vocabulary, starting with these terms from the superhero genre. For more, check out the full article: The Powerful Lingo of Superheroes

Vocabulary from "Beowulf" (translated by by Gummere).

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Meaning of hero in English

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hero noun [C] ( PERSON )

• hero I got to meet my political heroes.
• heroine She became a heroine for many young women hoping to enter the medical profession.
• idol My idols were the Hollywood actors of the '30s.
• icon Marilyn Monroe is a cinematic icon.
• role model She has become a reluctant role model for many young people.
• James Bond was a hero of mine when I was a boy .
• Perseus was a legendary Greek hero.
• She is the main character , the hero of the book .
• During his acting career , he has played all Shakespeare's great tragic heroes.
• A statue was erected to glorify the country's national heroes.
• fainthearted
• fallen idol
• have-a-go hero
• knight errant
• marshmallow
• scaredy-cat
• superheroine

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

hero noun [C] ( FOOD )

• avocado toast
• bag of chips
• Denver sandwich
• devils on horseback
• double-decker
• elephant ear
• shrimp chip

hero | American Dictionary

Examples of hero, collocations with hero.

These are words often used in combination with hero .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of hero

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Word of the Day

get away from it all

to go somewhere, usually on holiday, where you can completely relax and forget your responsibilities or problems

It’s not really my thing (How to say you don’t like something)

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Definition of hero noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• a war hero (= somebody who was very brave during a war)
• a hero of the First World War
• one of the country’s national heroes
• His charity work has made him something of a local hero .
• The Olympic team were given a hero's welcome on their return home.
• Scientists like her are typically unsung heroes (= people who are not praised or famous but deserve to be) .
• He was hailed as a hero after the rescue.
• Everyone played brilliantly, but Jones was the hero of the hour.
• He returned home from the tournament a conquering hero.
• He was one of the great football heroes of his day.
• John was no hero—he stood back as his friends approached the two armed border guards.
• O'Reilly enjoyed hero status based on his ability with a ball.
• She was an unsung hero of the British film industry.
• The fight to save the forest turned him into a local hero.
• The song remembers the brave heroes who died for their country.
• James Dean was a cult hero of the fifties.
• be hailed (as)
• make somebody into
• rescue somebody
• give somebody a hero’s welcome
• receive a hero’s welcome

Take your English to the next level

The Oxford Learner’s Thesaurus explains the difference between groups of similar words. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app

An explanatory essay informs readers about a specific topic or idea. It gives clear information without trying to change anyone's mind. This article will help you create a good explanatory essay. We'll cover what it is, how to plan it, and how to write your ideas clearly.

What Is an Explanatory Essay: Definition

An explanatory thesis is the main idea of this type of writing. It's a sentence that tells the reader what the essay is about. Explanatory essays need to present facts, not opinions. They use evidence and logic to explain things.

For example, if you're writing about climate change, your explanatory thesis might say: "Climate change is influenced by both natural events and human activities, and it affects the planet's ecosystems in many ways."

How to Start an Explanatory Essay: Important Steps

Knowing how to start an explanatory essay is important to get readers interested. Here's what to do:

• Pick an interesting topic
• Conduct thorough research
• Develop a clear thesis statement
• Create an outline

When choosing a topic, think about what your readers might like and what information you can find. For instance, if you're writing about clean energy, you could focus on new ways to use sunlight for power.

After you gather information, write your thesis statement. It should be specific and give a clear roadmap for your essay. For example: "Solar technology is changing how we produce and use energy around the world, offering both environmental and economic benefits."

Explanatory Essay Outline

A great outline helps you organize your thoughts and make your essay easy to follow. Here's a basic informational essay format:

1. Introduction

• A catchy hook
• Background information
• Thesis statement (Main idea)

2. Body Paragraphs (usually 3-5 sentences)

• Topic sentence
• Facts that support your idea
• Explanation
• Transition to the next point

3. Conclusion

• Restate main idea
• Sum up the main points
• Final thoughts

This structure helps keep your essay clear. Remember, each paragraph should focus on one main point that supports your main idea.

How to Write an Explanatory Essay

Now that you know the structure, let's talk about how to write explanatory essay well.

• Introduction: Start with something interesting—a surprising fact, a question, or a short story. Give some background on your topic and end with your main idea.
• Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should talk about one part of your topic. Use reliable sources to support your points, and explain how this information relates to your main idea. For example, when writing about solar energy, you might have paragraphs about how it helps the environment, how much it costs, and new ways to use it.
• Conclusion: How to write a conclusion for an explanatory essay: Sum up your main points and say your main idea again in a different way. Share some final thoughts about why your topic matters.

Throughout your essay, use words that help connect your ideas. This keeps readers interested and shows how your points are related.

Remember, the goal of an explanatory essay is to inform, not to argue. Stick to the facts, present them clearly, and let the information speak for itself.

Explanatory Essay Conclusion

How to write a conclusion for an explanatory essay is important to make your readers remember what you wrote. Your conclusion should:

• Restate your main idea but in a fresh way
• Go over the main points you talked about in your essay
• Give a final thought or suggest what to do next

For example, if you wrote about clean energy, you might end by stating the importance of continued research and investment in these technologies for a sustainable future.

Explanatory Essay Example

Here's a short example about artificial intelligence in healthcare:

Introduction: 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is bringing significant changes to various fields, with healthcare being a notable beneficiary. From diagnosis to treatment planning, AI is enhancing the capabilities of medical professionals and improving patient care outcomes.

Body Paragraph (example): 

One significant application of AI in healthcare is in medical imaging analysis. AI algorithms can now detect abnormalities in X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans with accuracy comparable to experienced radiologists. A 2020 study demonstrated that an AI system outperformed human experts in breast cancer detection, reducing false positives by 5.7% and false negatives by 9.4%. This technology not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also potentially reduces the workload on healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus on complex cases and patient care.

Conclusion: 

As AI technology advances, its integration into healthcare promises to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline treatment plans, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of AI in medicine underscore the importance of continued research and responsible implementation in this field.

Concluding Words

Writing a well-structured, informative, and explanatory essay requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the topic you are writing about. If you follow the tips in this guide and practice regularly, you'll get better at writing exceptional explanatory essays about any topic.

For writers looking to simplify their essay-writing process, Aithor can provide valuable assistance in organizing ideas, suggesting relevant information, and ensuring clear, coherent prose. While the core of your essay should always come from your own understanding and research, such tools can enhance your writing efficiency and effectiveness.

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