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Heroine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฆธโ€โ™€๏ธ
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heroine

[หˆhษ›rษ™สŠษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

female protagonist

A heroine is a woman admired for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. She is often the main character in a story or a movie, portrayed as brave, strong, and heroic. Heroines can inspire others with their determination and resilience.

Synonyms

female protagonist, heroic woman, leading lady.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heroine

Used to describe a woman admired for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities, often in literature or film.

  • She emerged as the heroine of the novel, overcoming numerous obstacles.
  • The film's heroine was celebrated for her bravery.
female protagonist

Refers specifically to the main female character in a story, regardless of her qualities or actions.

  • The female protagonist faces numerous challenges throughout the series.
  • The book tells the life of a compelling female protagonist.
heroic woman

Describes a woman who performs courageous or noble deeds, often in real life or realistic fiction.

  • She was a heroic woman who dedicated her life to helping others.
  • The documentary highlights the heroic women in history.
leading lady

Used in the context of theater, film, or television to refer to the primary female actor in a production, typically without the emphasis on heroic actions.

  • The leading lady of the play received rave reviews for her performance.
  • She has been the leading lady in numerous hit films.

Examples of usage

  • She was hailed as a heroine for saving the children from the burning building.
  • The novel's heroine overcame numerous obstacles to achieve her goals.
  • The movie's heroine fought against injustice and oppression.
  • The princess proved to be a strong and independent heroine in the fairy tale.
  • The heroine's selfless actions touched the hearts of many.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic stories feature heroines, like Jane Eyre or Elizabeth Bennet, who challenge social norms and strive for personal growth.
  • In contemporary fiction, characters like Katniss Everdeen from 'The Hunger Games' embody resilience and stand against oppression.

Film and Media

  • Films often portray heroines as central figures in action genres, like Wonder Woman and Lara Croft, highlighting their strength and bravery.
  • Documentaries about real-life heroines, such as Malala Yousafzai, inspire audiences by showcasing their courage against adversity.

Cultural Impact

  • The rise of feminist movements has popularized the concept of heroines, encouraging stories that reflect women's empowerment and agency.
  • Heroines in folklore and mythology, like Mulan and Joan of Arc, continue to influence modern perceptions of female strength.

Psychology

  • Research shows that stories with strong heroines can positively impact young girls' self-esteem and aspirations.
  • Having relatable female role models in media can help challenge stereotypes and broaden the possibilities for women's roles in society.

Origin of 'heroine'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'heroine' comes from the Greek word 'herลis,' which means a female warrior or demigod.
  • Initially used in the 15th century, it referred to women with extraordinary powers or abilities.

The word 'heroine' originated from the Latin word 'heroina' which was borrowed from the Greek word 'hฤ“roinฤ“'. In ancient mythology, heroines were often depicted as women with exceptional bravery and virtues. Over time, the term evolved to represent a female character who displays heroic qualities and inspires others. Heroines have been celebrated in literature, art, and culture for centuries, serving as role models for women and girls around the world.

See also: heroes, heroic, heroin, heroism, superhero.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,727, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.