1. not heroic; lacking the qualities of a hero; not showing courage, nobility, or greatness
2. of or relating to a literary or artistic work that deliberately avoids heroic themes or grand narratives
Usage: literary

Examples

• The protagonist's nonheroic response to the crisis disappointed many readers.
• He took a nonheroic approach, choosing to avoid confrontation rather than stand up for his beliefs.
• The novel presents a nonheroic character struggling with everyday problems.
• Her nonheroic behavior during the emergency showed a lack of courage.
• Modern literature often features nonheroic protagonists dealing with ordinary life.
• The film's nonheroic ending subverted audience expectations of a triumphant conclusion.