Langimage
English

hero

|he/ro|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈhɪəroʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɪərəʊ/

admired protector

Etymology
Etymology Information

'hero' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'hērōs,' where 'hērōs' meant 'protector' or 'defender.'

Historical Evolution

'hērōs' transformed into the Latin word 'heros,' and eventually became the modern English word 'hero' through Old French.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'protector or defender,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person admired for courage or noble qualities.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

The firefighter was hailed as a hero for saving the child from the burning building.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the principal character in a story, play, or film.

The hero of the novel embarks on a journey to find the lost treasure.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39