Heroine

ˈhɛroʊɪn

nounBeginnerCommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A woman who is admired for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

ˈhɛroʊɪn

nounpositiveBeginner
General

A woman admired for her courage or noble qualities.

The young woman was hailed as a heroine after rescuing the children from the burning building.

💡 Simply: A heroine is like a superhero, but she's a girl or woman! She's brave and does amazing things that make people look up to her. Like in a movie, the heroine is the main good guy.

👶 For kids: A heroine is a brave girl or woman who does good things!

More Examples

2

In the film, the heroine bravely faces the villain.

3

The novel's heroine is a strong and independent woman.

How It's Used

Literature

"The novel's heroine overcomes many obstacles."

General Usage

"She became a national heroine for her bravery."

2

The principal female character in a novel, play, film, or other narrative.

ˈhɛroʊɪn

nounneutralBeginner
Literature

The main female character in a story, play, or film.

The heroine of the play is a strong-willed young woman.

💡 Simply: In a story, the heroine is the main character who is a girl or a woman. Like in a movie, the heroine is the main character who the story is about.

👶 For kids: The main girl or woman in a story.

More Examples

2

The author created a complex and compelling heroine.

3

The film follows the journey of the heroine as she strives to achieve her goals.

How It's Used

Literature

"The heroine of the story struggles with her internal conflicts."

Film

"The movie's heroine is portrayed by a famous actress."

Tip:Think of the *hero* of a story, but as a woman. She's the main character.

From French *héroïne*, from Latin *hērōīn*a, feminine of *hērōīnus* (“heroic”), from Greek *hērōs* (“hero”).

The word 'heroine' has been used for centuries to describe women who display remarkable courage or are central figures in a narrative, often associated with tales of valor and adventure.

Memory tip

Think of a female *hero*.

heroinherroineherione

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written