patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
chiefly British ˈpa-
Synonyms of patriotismnext
: love for or devotion to one's country
Although poles apart ideologically, they are both unashamed of their patriotism.Christopher Hemphill

Examples of patriotism in a Sentence

You may not agree with him politically, but no one can question his patriotism. They supported the war with a fierce patriotism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now, seemingly under pressure from the economic fallout from the war with Iran, Modi has framed ordinary consumer choices, such as buying less petrol and choosing work-from-home, as acts of patriotism. Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 21 May 2026 The stories, gathered by Fox News personalities, reflect on what America and this summer’s America 250 celebrations mean, in an attempt to remember the country’s heritage and boost patriotism. Britta Miller, The Washington Examiner, 17 May 2026 But, the bigger the price difference, the more their patriotism erodes. Justin Worland, Time, 15 May 2026 The event on the west lawn of the Capitol, to air on public television stations, also will feature Trace Adkins who will debut his new song American Made, celebrating patriotism and achievements of Americans. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for patriotism

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patriotism was in 1716

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Cite this Entry

“Patriotism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patriotism. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

patriotism

noun
pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌtiz-əm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
: love of one's own country

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