WordGarden.iohero
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /hˈiərəʊ/
US
- /ˈhiroʊ/
Meanings
Noun
a person admired for courage, noble actions, or outstanding qualities
the main character in a story, movie, or play, especially one the audience supports
a legendary or mythological figure known for extraordinary deeds
More meaningsFewer meanings
a large sandwich served on a long roll
Beyond the definition
A hero is someone people admire for bravery, strong actions, or a good heart. It can be a person who saves others in danger, like a firefighter, or just someone who helps when things are hard. You might call a doctor, parent, teacher, or teammate a hero if they make a big difference in someone's life. In stories, a hero is also often the main male character, especially one who faces problems and tries to do the right thing.
People also use the word in a lighter way. A sports star can become a hero after a big win, and even an animal can be called one if it saves someone. The idea is simple: this is someone admired for courage, help, or doing something important.
The word "hero" usually describes someone admired for courage, noble actions, or helping others in an important way. In everyday life, a hero may be a person who risks their safety to save someone, stands strong in a hard situation, or gives support when it matters most. A firefighter running into a burning building, a doctor caring for patients during a crisis, or a parent making great sacrifices for a child can all be called heroes.
A hero does not have to be perfect. They can have fears, flaws, and doubts, but they still choose to act with courage or kindness. Sometimes the action is dramatic, like saving a life. Sometimes it is quieter, like standing up for another person, staying strong through trouble, or giving hope to others by example.
The word is also widely used in stories. In traditional storytelling, the hero is the main male character, often the one at the center of the action or the one who overcomes the main problem. In a broader sense, people also use "hero" for any central character who shows courage or wins our admiration. This is why legendary figures like Hercules or modern comic-book characters are often called heroes.
People also use the word more loosely for someone they look up to. A child may say a parent is their hero. Fans may call an athlete a hero after a great performance. In these cases, the word shows respect, gratitude, or deep admiration.
The word comes from ancient Greek, where it referred to a great figure of myth or legend. Over time, its meaning became broader. Today, a hero can be a rescuer, a role model, a champion, or the main male character in a story. Across all these uses, the common idea is someone who stands out for courage, action, or qualities that others admire.
Examples
- 1
Emergency landing
The pilot was called a hero after landing the plane safely.
- 2
Story character
In the story, the hero leaves home and faces a series of dangers.
- 3
Sports role model
To many young players, she is a sporting hero.
- 4
Community rescue
During the floods, several neighbors became local heroes by helping stranded families.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Dramatic bravery
He tried to play the hero and climb onto the roof by himself.
- Phraseplay the hero
act in a brave or dramatic way
- 6
Everyday thanks
"You brought me coffee and printed the report? You're a hero."
- PhraseYou're a hero.
You helped me a lot.
- 7
Match winner
The goalkeeper was the hero of the match after saving two penalties.
- Patternthe hero of + event
the person who did the most important thing
- 8
Hidden helper
Behind every successful event, there's usually an unsung hero doing the hard work.
- Phraseunsung hero
someone who helps a lot but gets little praise
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- heronoun
Forms
- heroespluralnoun