1. a person who suffers or dies for their beliefs, especially religious beliefs
2. a person who suffers greatly or makes sacrifices for a cause or principle
3. a person who seeks sympathy by exaggerating their suffering or difficulties
Usage: informal

1. to kill someone because of their beliefs
2. to cause someone to suffer greatly for a cause

Examples

• Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr.
• She became a martyr for the civil rights movement.
• The soldiers were honored as martyrs who died defending their country.
• Stop being such a martyr about doing the dishes.
• The regime martyred many political dissidents.
• He martyred himself for the cause of freedom.
• The early Christians were often martyred for their faith.