martyrize

[ mahr-tuh-rahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, mar·tyr·ized, mar·tyr·iz·ing.

1. to make a martyr of:

   The ancient Romans martyrized many Christians.

2. to torment.

Other Words From

• martyr·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of martyrize¹

1400–50; late Middle English martirizen < Medieval Latin martyrizāre. See martyr, -ize

Example Sentences

But the civilian hardships they cause suggest the intention is also to martyrize minds, to torment Kyiv and other cities so Ukrainians surrender and sue for peace.

From Seattle Times

“And to make more livable a region that has been martyrized for over a century.”

From New York Times

Many scholars of the Holocaust and other societal horrors say it’s essential to keep people like Anne Frank real, not one-dimensional, not martyrized.

From Washington Post

The older couple’s relationship, a brooding faceoff played out in the cold comfort of their well-appointed home, is overshadowed by choppily assembled intrigue and the martyrizing of Ye.

From Seattle Times

"There's like a fatigue about the DRC, in spite of the fact that it is one of the most martyrized countries where the people - and in particular the women - are suffering."

From BBC

Related Words

• abuse
• annoy
• beat
• disturb
• injure
• maim
• mistreat
• mutilate
• oppress
• persecute
• torment
• wound