Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A prominent American civil rights leader and Baptist minister: Martin Luther King Jr. was a charismatic figure who led the movement for racial equality and justice in the United States during the mid-20th century.
   • A historical figure known for nonviolent activism: He is renowned for advocating and employing nonviolent civil disobedience based on his Christian beliefs and the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963.
  • We study the life and teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. in history class.
  • The national holiday honors the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Advanced Usage

• "A Martin Luther King Jr. figure": used to describe a person who is a charismatic leader for social justice and civil rights.

  • The community activist was seen as a Martin Luther King Jr. figure for her generation.

• "In the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr.": acting with a commitment to justice, equality, and nonviolent protest.

  • The protesters marched in the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr.

Variants and Related Words

• Dr. King: A common shortened, respectful reference.
  • Dr. King's principles continue to inspire.
• MLK: A widely used initialism.
  • The MLK Day parade is next Monday.
• Kingian (adj): Pertaining to the philosophy or principles of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • She follows a Kingian approach to social change.

Synonyms

• Civil rights leader: A general term for an activist in the movement for racial equality.
• Nonviolent activist: A person who uses peaceful methods to achieve social or political goals.

Related Phrases

• "I Have a Dream": The iconic speech delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963, often cited as a symbol of hope for racial harmony.
• "Letter from Birmingham Jail": An important open letter written by Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963 defending the strategy of nonviolent resistance.

Related Idioms

• "To have a dream": This phrase, directly from his speech, is often used to signify having a hopeful vision for a better future.
  • Like Martin Luther King Jr., we must all have a dream for a more just society.

Noun

1. United States charismatic civil rights leader and Baptist minister who campaigned against the segregation of Blacks (1929-1968)