愛国
Meanings
1
patriotism; love of one's country
Refers to patriotic feeling or love for one's country. Often used in compounds like 愛国心 (patriotic spirit) and 愛国者 (patriot).
His speech was full of patriotism.
Patriotism is considered one of the duties of a citizen.
2
rare term
Rare ateji reading for Ireland, based on the kanji 愛 (love) and 国 (country). Not used in modern Japanese; the standard name is アイルランド.
See also: アイルランド
On old maps, you can sometimes see the notation 愛国 read as Ireland.
Usage patterns
- 愛国の精神the spirit of patriotism
He is overflowing with patriotic spirit.
- 愛国の名の下に〈動詞〉to do something in the name of patriotism
Many people joined the war in the name of patriotism.