'Heroism' definitions:

Definition of 'heroism'

From: WordNet
noun
The qualities of a hero or heroine; exceptional or heroic courage when facing danger (especially in battle); "he showed great heroism in battle"; "he received a medal for valor" [syn: heroism, gallantry, valor, valour, valorousness, valiance, valiancy]

Definition of 'Heroism'

From: GCIDE
  • Heroism \Her"o*ism\ (?; 277), n. [F. h['e]ro["i]sme.] The qualities characteristic of a hero, as courage, bravery, fortitude, unselfishness, etc.; the display of such qualities. [1913 Webster]
  • Heroism is the self-devotion of genius manifesting itself in action. --Hare.
  • Syn: Heroism, Courage, Fortitude, Bravery, Valor, Intrepidity, Gallantry.
  • Usage: Courage is generic, denoting fearlessness or defiance of danger; fortitude is passive courage, the habit of bearing up nobly under trials, danger, and sufferings; bravery is courage displayed in daring acts; valor is courage in battle or other conflicts with living opponents; intrepidity is firm courage, which shrinks not amid the most appalling dangers; gallantry is adventurous courage, dashing into the thickest of the fight. Heroism may call into exercise all these modifications of courage. It is a contempt of danger, not from ignorance or inconsiderate levity, but from a noble devotion to some great cause, and a just confidence of being able to meet danger in the spirit of such a cause. Cf. Courage. [1913 Webster]