Meaning & Definition of word "Martyr"
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Martyr
/ˈmɑːrtə/
noun:
- 1. A person who suffers death or great suffering on behalf of any belief, principle, or cause.
- Example: She was regarded as a martyr for her unwavering commitment to human rights.
- 2. A person who makes great sacrifices or endures much suffering for a principle or purpose.
- Example: He became a martyr in the fight for social justice, inspiring many with his dedication.
verb:
- 1. To make a martyr of; to put to death for refusing to renounce a belief.
- Example: The oppressive regime martyrs many innocent citizens who oppose its rule.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'martir', from Latin 'martyrium', from Greek 'marturion' meaning 'witness'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
martyr complex:
A psychological condition where a person seeks to gain sympathy from suffering.
make a martyr of (oneself):
To suffer or be put through hardship in a way that elicits sympathy from others.
martyr for a cause:
Someone who sacrifices themselves for a particular belief or cause.
Related Words
martyrdom:
The state of being a martyr.
sacrifice:
The act of giving up something valuable for the sake of something else.
persecution:
The act of oppressing or harassing someone, especially for their beliefs.
Slang Meanings of martyr
Meaning: Playing the victim.
Example Sentence: She's such a martyr, always looking for sympathy.
Meaning: Dramatically suffering for attention.
Example Sentence: Stop being a martyr and just ask for help.