1. the suffering of death on account of adherence to a cause and especially to one’s religious faith
2. extreme suffering for a cause or principle
3. the condition of being a martyr

Examples

• The saint’s martyrdom inspired countless followers.
• She faced martyrdom rather than renounce her beliefs.
• His martyrdom became a symbol of resistance.
• The early Christians often chose martyrdom over conversion.
• The activist’s martyrdom galvanized the movement.
• Stories of martyrdom filled the religious texts.
• He embraced martyrdom for his political cause.