noun
heroine
HAIR-oh-in/ˈherəʊɪn/
A woman admired for exceptional deeds or courage.
The courageous heroine leads her companions safely across the rough mountain terrain.
Etymology
Greek hērōinē named a female hero or demigoddess. The English word broadened to a woman distinguished by courage or achievement, then also to the principal female character in a story.
In context
The heroine in common with the hero has her ambition to be of use in the world to do some good.
More examples
- She becomes a national heroine by standing up to injustice.
- The museum celebrates the heroines who helped enslaved people escape.
- Her bravery during the rescue makes her a local heroine.
Forms
Similar words
- hero
- Hero can describe an admired person of any gender.