1
as in military
of, relating to, or suitable for war or a warrior
the marching band played "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and several other martial airs
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in naval
of or relating to the armed services
one of the basic tenets of martial law
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of martial
Boys participated in tournaments that tested their martial prowess, glorifying the idea of fighting on behalf of Putin.
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Tetiana Kotelnykova, The Atlantic, 22 Oct. 2025
Kerr was a mixed martial artist who fought from 1997 to 2009, winning four ADCC World Championships in his career.
—Zack Sharf, Variety, 6 Oct. 2025
For the martial artist and action star Bruce Lee, iconography and vulnerability were entwined.
—New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
Regardless of your martial status, this dish unites all those flavors with the umami-deep flavors of steak and beef broth.
—Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 30 Sep. 2025
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Recent Examples of Synonyms for martial
Adjective
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Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 prompted unified Western sanctions, massive military aid, and rhetorical solidarity, but by late 2025, strategic divergences had widened amid battlefield stalemates, economic fatigue, and diplomatic initiatives.—
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As an ex-Navy Seal, Kayce will use his military and cowboy skills to fight crime in Montana, according to the show’s description.—
Adjective
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The alliance had been crucial during America’s War of Independence, providing naval power under admirals such as de Grasse, troops at Yorktown, and loans that kept the Continental Army afloat.—
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One advanced alloy, made of 70 percent copper and 30 percent nickel, is widely used in naval applications.—
Adjective
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With two convenient locations, one in Milpitas and another in Fremont which offers a compact counter-service experience complete with outdoor seating as well as a larger hangout spot with a full bar and even a pool table.—
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Over the past few years, China has conducted numerous exercises aimed at demonstrating its ability to operate around the island, including large-scale multi-service war games that involve land, air, naval, and rocket forces.—
Cite this Entry
“Martial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/martial. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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