noun
distinguished citizen; patriot
A person of outstanding character and devotion to their country; often carries a somewhat formal or literary tone.
彼は真の国士として尊敬されている。
He is respected as a true patriot.
愛国者 is a more common, everyday word for 'patriot', while 国士 implies a person of exceptional character and service, often used in historical or formal contexts.
From 国 (country) + 士 (gentleman, scholar, warrior), originally referring to a person of high standing who serves the nation.