Martyr

/ˈmɑːrtə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who suffers death or great suffering on behalf of any belief, principle, or cause.

She was regarded as a martyr for her unwavering commitment to human rights.

A person who makes great sacrifices or endures much suffering for a principle or purpose.

He became a martyr in the fight for social justice, inspiring many with his dedication.

verb

To make a martyr of; to put to death for refusing to renounce a belief.

The oppressive regime martyrs many innocent citizens who oppose its rule.

Middle English, from Old French 'martir', from Latin 'martyrium', from Greek 'marturion' meaning 'witness'.

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.

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.

Playing the victim.

She's such a martyr, always looking for sympathy.

Dramatically suffering for attention.

Stop being a martyr and just ask for help.