Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - hero

 noun  (plural ~es)  Etymology: Latin ~s, from Greek heros  Date: 14th century  1.  a. a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability  b. an illustrious warrior  c. a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities  d. one that shows great courage  2.  a. the principal male character in a literary or dramatic work  b. the central figure in an event, period, or movement  3. plural usually ~s submarine 2  4. an object of extreme admiration and devotion ; idol HERO  I. noun  Etymology: Latin, from Greek Hero  Date: 14th century a legendary priestess of Aphrodite loved by Leander  II. biographical name  or ~n  1st century A.D. Greek scientist