Pa″tri‐ot (pā″trĭ‐ŏt; 277), n. [F. patriote; cf. Sp. patriota, It. patriotto; all fr. Gr. πατριώτησ a fellow-countryman, fr. πάτριοσ established by forefathers, fr. πατήρ father. See Father.] One who loves his country, and zealously supports its authority and interests. Bp. Hall.
Such tears as patriots shed for dying laws. Pope.