hero
he-ro · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
A person admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.
- 2.
The main male character in a story, play, or film.
- 3.
A person idealized for a particular quality or trait.
- 4.
(North American) A large sandwich on a long roll; a submarine sandwich.
Forms
plural: heroes
Phrases & expressions
- •unsung hero — someone whose contributions are not recognized
- •hero worship — excessive admiration for someone
- •local hero — someone admired in their community
- •make a hero of — treat someone as a hero
Related words
Etymology
From Latin "hērōs," from Greek "hērōs" (warrior, hero), originally referring to demigods or divine beings in Greek mythology. In ancient Greek culture, heroes occupied a status between gods and mortals. The word entered English in the 14th century through Latin.