patriot
3 synonyms and 1 antonym for patriot, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A person who loves their country and is strongly devoted to supporting and defending it.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
loyalist
flag-waver
Antonyms
How to use patriot
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
true patriot
loyal patriot
patriot act
Etymology
From French patriote, from Late Latin patriōta ("fellow countryman"), from Greek patriōtēs, ultimately from patēr ("father").
Full origin of patriot →Frequently asked questions
What does “patriot” mean?
The word “patriot” means a person who loves their country and is strongly devoted to supporting and defending it. In plain terms, someone devoted to their own country.
How do you pronounce “patriot”?
“Patriot” is pronounced PAY-tree-uht (/ˈpeɪ.tɹi.ət/ in IPA).
How do you use “patriot” in a sentence?
Here is “patriot” used in a sentence: “He served in the army out of a genuine sense of himself as a patriot.”
What is the opposite of “patriot”?
The opposite of “patriot” — its antonyms — is Loyalist.
What part of speech is “patriot”?
“Patriot” is a noun.
Where does the word “patriot” come from?
The word “patriot” comes from Late Latin. From French patriote, from Late Latin patriōta ("fellow countryman"), from Greek patriōtēs, ultimately from patēr ("father").
Is “patriot” a common word?
“Patriot” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a patriot and a nationalist?
A patriot loves their country and is devoted to supporting and defending it, while a nationalist often takes this further, emphasizing national superiority or interest above other nations. Patriot generally carries a more neutral or positive connotation than nationalist in common usage.
Is patriot always used as a compliment?
Patriot is usually used positively to describe genuine love and devotion to one's country, but it can occasionally be used sarcastically or critically when someone's claimed patriotism is seen as excessive or self-serving. Context determines whether the term is sincere or ironic.
What is the adjective form of patriot?
The adjective form of patriot is patriotic, used to describe actions, feelings, or symbols that show strong love and support for one's country, as in "a patriotic speech."
