Patriotic means having love and loyalty for your country. A patriotic person cares deeply about their nation and feels proud to be part of it.

When someone is patriotic, they might display their country's flag, sing the national anthem with feeling, or work to make their country better. American colonists who fought for independence were patriotic, believing deeply in creating a free nation. Scientists who dedicate years to curing diseases help their fellow citizens out of patriotic devotion. Teachers who work hard to educate the next generation are serving their country patriotically.

Being patriotic doesn't mean thinking your country is perfect or better than all others. It means caring enough to want it to live up to its ideals. A patriotic citizen might volunteer in their community, vote in elections when old enough, or simply treat fellow citizens with respect and kindness.

You can be patriotic while also respecting other countries and their people. Patriotism is about love for your own country, not hostility toward others.