Definition

To make someone a martyr, often by causing them to suffer or die for their beliefs or cause.

Example

The regime martyrized the activists to discourage others from speaking out.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I read an interesting article about how some people tend to martyrize themselves for their beliefs.

Really? I think that can be both inspiring and dangerous.

Yeah, it makes you wonder if it’s worth it to martyrize oneself for a cause.

Definitely, but sometimes it’s more effective to just advocate for change without the drama.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Martyrize → It is formed from "martyr" (from Greek "martus", meaning witness) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or to become). The word "martyrize" means to make someone a martyr or to cause someone to suffer for their beliefs.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being made a 'witness' ('martyr') for their beliefs, and the '-ize' means to make that happen.

Visually Confused Words