Synonyms for

Martyrs

Verb / ˈmɑ:rtɜ:z / Another word for martyrs — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Martyrs are people who die or suffer for their beliefs or principles.

Synonyms & similar words

martyr sufferer martyrize martyrise saints heroes victims sacrifices martyrized martyrology martyrdom persecuted martyrlike martyrship martyrological martyrizer martyrologic martyrizing sufferers champions martyral martyrologist witnesses confessors

Synonyms by register

Formal

victim sufferer sacrificial lamb

Informal

patsy scapegoat fall guy

Literary

confessor witness saint

Antonyms

benefactor supporter defender champion advocate protagonist

Common collocations

  • religious martyrs
  • political martyrs
  • martyrs of science
  • died as martyrs
  • become martyrs
  • honor martyrs
  • martyrs for a cause

Word family

noun martyrdom
verb martyrize

Usage note

While 'martyr' can refer to someone who dies for a cause, it is also often used hyperbolically for someone who endures great suffering or inconvenience, sometimes humorously.

Example sentences

  1. The brave soldiers who fought for their country are considered martyrs.
  2. Joan of Arc is one of the most famous martyrs in history.
  3. The early Christians were often persecuted and killed as martyrs.
  4. He was willing to become a martyr for his cause.
  5. The memorial was built to honor the martyrs who died in the war.

Quotes

  • The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church. - Tertullian
  • To die for a religion is easier than to live it absolutely. - Jorge Luis Borges
  • The tyrant dies and his rule is over; the martyr dies and his rule begins. - Søren Kierkegaard

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