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patriotism

B2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pˈætrɪətˌɪzəm/

US

  • /ˈpeɪtriəˌtɪzəm/

Description

Patriotism is not just waving flags on holidays, though it can include that. It is the feeling of love, care, and loyalty a person has for their country. You can see it in a soldier defending the homeland, in a voter taking civic duty seriously, or in someone working to make their society better. It is not always loud or dramatic. Quiet acts of service, respect for the community, and pride in a country's people or achievements can also show it. It does not have to mean blind support. For many people, it also includes wanting their country to grow and do better.

Examples

  1. 1

    Personal feeling

    Her patriotism was clear in the way she spoke about her country.

  2. 2

    School ceremony

    The ceremony gave many students a stronger sense of patriotism.

  3. 3

    Public display

    Flags and parades are public displays of patriotism.

  4. 4

    Wartime appeal

    During the war, appeals to patriotism encouraged thousands of people to volunteer.

    • Phrase

      appeal to someone's patriotism

      try to influence them through their feelings about their country

  5. 5

    Constructive patriotism

    He said real patriotism includes wanting your country to do better.

  6. 6

    Unquestioning support

    She loved her country, but she rejected blind patriotism.

    • Phrase

      blind patriotism

      supporting your country without questioning it

  7. 7

    Civic action

    For him, voting and helping his neighbors were a quiet form of patriotism.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • patriotismnoun