Definition

Verb (transitive) 1. To cause someone to suffer greatly or be killed for their beliefs or principles: This is the primary meaning, referring to making someone a martyr through persecution, torture, or execution. 2. To torment or torture someone, often for a prolonged period: This sense emphasizes the infliction of severe physical or mental suffering, likening the victim's experience to that of a martyr.

Usage and Examples

• The oppressive regime sought to martyrise anyone who spoke out against its policies.
• In the historical account, the conquerors attempted to martyrise the local religious leaders to crush the faith.
• (Figurative) She felt martyrised by the constant, unreasonable demands of her job.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• "martyrise oneself": This reflexive form can imply voluntarily taking on excessive suffering or sacrifice, often with a sense of self-pity or for perceived moral superiority.
  • Example: He tends to martyrise himself for the project, refusing help and then complaining about the workload.
• The word often carries a critical or negative connotation when used outside of a strictly religious or historical context, suggesting unnecessary or self-imposed suffering.

Variants and Related Words

• Martyr (noun): A person who is killed or suffers greatly for their beliefs.
• Martyrdom (noun): The condition, sufferings, or death of a martyr.
• Martyrize (verb): An alternative spelling, identical in meaning and usage to 'martyrise'. The '-ize' spelling is more common in American English.

Synonyms

• Persecute
• Torment
• Torture
• Victimize

Antonyms

• Vindicate
• Exonerate
• Celebrate
• Reward

Verb

1. torture and torment like a martyr