patriotism

noun

pa·​tri·​ot·​ism ˈpā-trē-ə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce patriotism (audio)
 chiefly British  ˈpa-
: 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 Arneson also views such hyperlocal sourcing on an ethical level, framing the use of native plants as a form of patriotism. Paola Singer, Robb Report, 10 Mar. 2024 Sunny Hostin commemorated the apparent death of red, white, and blue patriotism with an all-black ensemble on The View. Joey Nolfi, EW.com, 6 Mar. 2024 For progressive-minded voters, visual patriotism has been consigned to the dustbin of if not history then at least the one holding all our old skinny jeans and side parts. Mattie Kahn, Vogue, 6 Mar. 2024 This is exactly what patriotism is about, not slogans. Paolo Confino, Fortune, 4 Mar. 2024 The film also offers some edge-of-the-seat suspense, a fleeting romantic angle; and a heavy dose of emotions that do not start and end with patriotism alone. Sweta Kaushal, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 Those efforts have included crude attempts to drum up patriotism and a sense of belonging to the mainland among Hongkongers, and more subtle ones based on economic incentives. Chris Lau, CNN, 24 Feb. 2024 Words that people took for granted in the past, or never thought much about—bravery, cowardice, patriotism—have acquired new significance. Jędrzej Nowicki, The Atlantic, 23 Feb. 2024 The answer can involve many factors, including policy views, patriotism, and the desire to do what is right. Elizabeth N. Saunders, Foreign Affairs, 20 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'patriotism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patriotism was in 1716

Dictionary Entries Near patriotism

Cite this Entry

“Patriotism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patriotism. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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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