martyrdom Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun death that is imposed because of the person's adherence of a religious faith or cause
  2. noun any experience that causes intense suffering
    calvary.

WordNet

Mar"tyr*dom noun
Etymology
Martyr + -dom.
Definitions
  1. The condition of a martyr; the death of a martyr; the suffering of death on account of adherence to the Christian faith, or to any cause. Bacon.
    I came from martyrdom unto this peace. Longfellow.
  2. Affliction; torment; torture. Chaucer.

Webster 1913