What does hero mean?
A hero is a person who is admired for exceptional courage, noble conduct, achievement, or service to others. The word is also used for the central protagonist of a story, film, or game, although such a character may be morally flawed or fail to behave heroically. In everyday speech, calling someone “a hero” is a strong expression of admiration, especially after a brave rescue, remarkable public achievement, or act of self-sacrifice. The term can occasionally sound idealized or overstated, but it remains more direct than a neutral description such as “brave person.” Historically, “hero” referred to figures of exceptional or semi-divine status in Greek tradition, and this elevated sense continues to influence the word’s connotations of courage, leadership, and nobility. Modern usage is broad: it may describe a historical leader, entertainer, athlete, fictional protagonist, or an ordinary person whose actions inspire admiration. The related adjective “heroic” emphasizes courage or nobility, while “heroism” names the quality or behavior being admired.
A person greatly admired for courage, noble qualities, or exceptional achievement; also, the central protagonist of a story or other work.
"Her courage in the aftermath of the earthquake earned her the reputation of a hero."
The modern sense is generally positive, though it can imply idealization of the person concerned.
To treat, honor, or present someone as a hero.
"The campaign heroized the volunteers who had cared for the storm victims."
This use is chiefly North American and informal.
The standard plural adds the ending -es.
"Two local heroes were honored at the community ceremony."
Long before comic-book characters flew, the ancient Greek hero could be a warrior, king, prophet, or founder remembered for exceptional courage and sometimes divine ancestry.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hero
The word comes through Old French and Latin from Greek hērōs, a term applied to exceptional heroic or semi-divine figures. It entered English in medieval usage for people of legendary courage, noble birth, or extraordinary deeds. English later developed the closely related forms “heroic,” “heroism,” and “heroine” from the same inherited root.
Related word forms
How hero is actually used
The word is normally complimentary, though it can suggest excessive admiration or idealization. As a verb, “to hero” is chiefly North American and informal, meaning to treat or praise someone as a hero.
Easily confused with hero
A hero is admired for qualities such as courage or achievement, whereas an heir is a person entitled to inherit property or a title.