noun
- the first martyr in a cause or the first Christian martyr in a particular place
Usage: religious
Examples
- Saint Stephen is considered the protomartyr of Christianity.
- The protomartyr of England was Saint Alban.
- Each region often honors its own protomartyr who died for the faith.
- The cathedral was dedicated to the protomartyr of their diocese.
- Historians debate who should be considered the protomartyr of the movement.
- The protomartyr’s feast day is celebrated annually by the local church.