martyrology

martyrology

A scholar studies a martyrology in a quiet library.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A list or account of martyrs: "martyrology" refers to a catalogue or historical record of individuals who have suffered death or persecution for their religious faith, particularly in Christianity.
    • The study of martyrs: "martyrology" can also denote the branch of hagiography (the study of saints) that focuses specifically on the lives and deaths of martyrs.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The ancient church maintained a detailed martyrology of early Christian saints. (A list of those who died for their faith.)
    • Her research in martyrology uncovered forgotten stories of persecution. (The academic study of martyrs.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to be included in the martyrology": to be officially recognized as a martyr by a religious institution.

    • Saint Stephen was among the first figures added to the Christian martyrology. (He was formally listed as a martyr.)

  • "a secular martyrology": a metaphorical use referring to a list of people who have died for a non-religious cause.

    • The journalist compiled a secular martyrology of activists killed for their political beliefs. (A record of those who died for a political cause.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Martyrologist (n): a person who studies or compiles a martyrology.

    • The martyrologist spent decades researching ancient texts. (A scholar of martyr lists.)

  • Martyrological (adj): relating to the study or record of martyrs.

    • The martyrological literature of the period is extensive. (Literature dealing with martyrs.)
Synonyms
  • Calendar of saints: a list of saints and martyrs in the Christian liturgical year.
  • Hagiography: the writing of the lives of saints, including martyrs.
  • Roll of honour: a list of those who died for a cause, often used in a secular context.
Related Idioms

  • A martyr's crown: a metaphorical expression for the honour of dying for one's faith, often referenced in martyrology.

    • In traditional martyrology, receiving a martyr's crown was the ultimate reward. (The highest honour for a martyr.)

  • To die for the faith: a phrase describing the act that qualifies a person for inclusion in a martyrology.

    • Many early Christians died for the faith, earning their place in the martyrology. (They were killed because of their beliefs.)