\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.
      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}.