patriotic

Patriotic is an adjective describing the feeling, expressions, or actions related to patriotism—love of or devotion to a country or homeland, and a willingness to support its welfare and defend its values. A person described as patriotic may be motivated by loyalty to national institutions, culture, or people, and may express that loyalty through civic engagement, support for national symbols, or public advocacy.

Etymology: The noun patriot appears in English in the late 16th to early 17th century, borrowed from Old French patriote, from Latin patria meaning homeland. The adjective patriotic follows from the noun, denoting the quality or behavior associated with patriotism.

Patriotic expressions include observing national holidays, displaying flags or emblems, reciting or singing national anthems, and volunteering or serving in public or military roles. In crisis or celebration, patriotic rhetoric often emphasizes unity, shared values, and commitment to the nation’s welfare. Cultural practices, education, and media can shape how patriotism is expressed and understood within a society.

Patriotic sentiment exists alongside critical or civic patriotism; scholarly discussions distinguish constructive patriotism from excessive nationalism or chauvinism. Views on patriotism vary by culture and history, influencing education, public policy, and the use of symbols in public life. In some contexts, patriotism is celebrated as a unifying force, while in others it is viewed as a potential source of exclusion or conflict when it overrides commitments to universal rights or minority protections.