Martial describes anything related to war, soldiers, or the military. It appears in phrases like 'martial arts' and 'martial law'.
From Latin 'martialis' meaning 'of Mars', the Roman god of war. From there it came to mean 'warlike' or 'military'.
Martial arts are literally 'war-like arts', even though many are now practiced mainly for sport or self-control. 'Martial law' is the law of Mars’s world—rules enforced by soldiers when normal civil law is suspended.
Martial, relating to war or the military, has been culturally linked to masculinity, with combat and 'martial virtues' framed as male domains. This association has influenced who is seen as a legitimate soldier and how societies view women’s participation in armed forces.
Use martial descriptively for military matters without implying that martial skills or interests are inherently male. Avoid glorifying violence or equating martial traits with ideal masculinity.
["military","warlike","combat‑related"]
Women have long participated in martial roles—as soldiers, strategists, and organizers—though their contributions are often downplayed or framed as exceptional.
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