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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


martial

adjective

Definition: 1. pertaining to soldiers and war; 2. warlike

Synonyms: warlike, military, militant, soldierly, belligerent, warring, combative

Antonyms: civil, peaceful, un-soldierly

Tips: The word martial originates from the name of Mars, the Roman god of war. Martial can refer to anything befitting a soldier, like a military uniform, or it can refer to someone who is antagonistic and warlike. If "Martial Law" is declared in a country, it means the military has taken control of the country. "Martial Arts" are the study of fighting. Do not confuse martial with it's homonym marshal, which, as a noun, means "sheriff" or "law enforcer" and, as a verb, means "to gather, organize, and arrange people, thoughts, things, or troops."

Usage Examples:

We left the country shortly before the borders were closed and martial law was declared. (military)

His martial uniform made him look much older than he was. (military, soldierly)

Denise practices martial arts to feel more confident and be better prepared to defend herself from an attacker. (combative, warring)

The professor's martial demeanor made him very intimidating to his students. (militant, soldierly)


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