martial
Martial (adj) means relating to war, fighting, or the armed forces; warlike or military in character. Example: “The country was placed under martial law during the coup.”
How to use martial
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving to do with war, soldiers, or the military — most often seen in phrases like "martial law" and "martial arts."
Don't confuse with "marshal" (a rank or job, or the verb meaning to organize) — the words are pronounced almost the same.
Word forms
more martial comparative, martials plural, most martial superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The country was placed under _____ law during the coup.
Etymology
From Latin martialis, "of Mars," the Roman god of war — the same root that gives us the planet Mars.
Related words
Rhymes for martial
See all rhymes for martial →Frequently asked questions
What does “martial” mean?
The word “martial” means relating to war, fighting, or the armed forces; warlike or military in character. In plain terms, having to do with war, soldiers, or the military — most often seen in phrases like "martial law" and "martial arts.".
How do you pronounce “martial”?
“Martial” is pronounced MAH-shuhl (/ˈmɑɹʃəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “martial” in a sentence?
Here is “martial” used in a sentence: “The country was placed under martial law during the coup.”
What part of speech is “martial”?
“Martial” is an adjective.
Where does the word “martial” come from?
The word “martial” comes from Latin. From Latin martialis, "of Mars," the Roman god of war — the same root that gives us the planet Mars.
Is “martial” a common word?
“Martial” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between martial and marital?
Martial means relating to war, fighting, or the armed forces, while marital means relating to marriage. The two differ by a single letter swap and are commonly confused in writing; remember martial as in Mars and martial arts, and marital as in marriage.
Why are martial arts called martial?
Martial means warlike or relating to fighting, so martial arts are literally 'arts of combat.' The label covers disciplines such as karate, judo, and taekwondo that systematize fighting techniques, even when they are practiced today mainly as sport or self-defense.
What is martial law?
Martial law is the temporary imposition of direct military control over normal civilian functions, usually during an emergency such as war, invasion, or serious unrest. The phrase uses martial in its core sense of 'relating to the armed forces.'
Is martial related to Mars?
Yes. Martial comes from Latin and is connected with Mars, the Roman god of war, which is why it describes anything warlike or military in character. The adjective 'Martian,' by contrast, refers to the planet Mars.
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