Meaning of the word martyr in English

What does martyr mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

martyr

US /ˈmɑːr.t̬ɚ/
UK /ˈmɑː.tər/
"martyr" picture

Noun

1.

a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs

Example:
He was revered as a martyr for the cause of freedom.
The early Christians honored the martyrs who died for their faith.
2.

a person who displays or exaggerates their suffering in order to obtain sympathy or admiration

Example:
She's always playing the martyr to make us feel guilty.
I'm tired of your martyr act.

Verb

to kill someone because of their beliefs

Example:
He was martyred for his political convictions.