martyr - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

martyr

|mar-tyr|

🇺🇸

/ˈmɑːrtər/

🇬🇧

/ˈmɑːtə/

suffering for a cause

Etymology

Etymology Information

'martyr' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'martur,' where 'martur' meant 'witness.'

Historical Evolution

'martur' changed from the Old English word 'martir' and eventually became the modern English word 'martyr'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'witness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who suffers for a cause.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who is killed or suffers greatly for a religious or other cause.

He was considered a martyr after sacrificing his life for his beliefs.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to kill someone because of their beliefs.

The regime martyred many who opposed its rule.

Synonyms

Examples

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/12 20:06