ˈhɪərəu n. (pl. -oes) 1 a a
man noted or admired
for nobility,
courage,
outstanding achievements, etc. (Newton, a hero of science). b a
great warrior. 2
the chief male character in a
poem,
play, story, etc. 3 Gk Antiq. a man of
superhuman qualities, favoured by the gods; a
demigod. øhero's
welcome a rapturous welcome, like
that given to a
successful warrior. hero-worship n. 1 idealization of an admired man. 2 Gk Antiq.
worship of the ancient heroes. --v.tr. (-worshipped, -worshipping; US -worshiped, -worshiping) worship as a hero;
idolize. hero-worshipper a
person engaging in hero-worship. [ME f. L heros f. Gk heros]