'Martyrdom' definitions:

Definition of 'martyrdom'

From: WordNet
noun
Death that is imposed because of the person's adherence of a religious faith or cause
noun
Any experience that causes intense suffering [syn: calvary, martyrdom]

Definition of 'Martyrdom'

From: GCIDE
  • Martyrdom \Mar"tyr*dom\, n. [Martyr + -dom.]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • I came from martyrdom unto this peace. --Longfellow. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Affliction; torment; torture. --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]