martyrdom

noun

mar·​tyr·​dom ˈmär-tər-dəm 

1

: the suffering of death on account of adherence to a cause and especially to one's religious faith

… defended moral truth even to the point of enduring martyrdom …

—Andrew Sullivan

2

: affliction, torture

Examples of martyrdom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Shiites frame their own suffering – from facing injustice to martyrdom – as symbolically participating in Husayn’s sacrifice. —Mary Thurlkill, The Conversation, 30 Mar. 2026

If the drama turns to martyrdom, the chore becomes heavier. —Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 28 Mar. 2026

The investigation of the Piedmontese plot led to their discovery, and their contribution to the Risorgimento could consist only in the example of their courage and the legend of their martyrdom. —Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 12 Mar. 2026

Indian social and women’s rights activist, educationist, Syeda Saiyidain Hameed during the Iran Embassy opens condolence book on the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on March 5, 2026 in New Delhi, India. —Amitoj Singh, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

martyrdom

noun

mar·​tyr·​dom ˈmärt-ərd-əm 

1

: the sufferings and death of a martyr

2

: torment entry 1 sense 1