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Crusade: meaning, definitions and examples

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crusade

 

[ kruːˈseɪd ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

historical movement

A crusade refers to a series of religious wars initiated by the Latin Church in the medieval period, primarily aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim rule. These campaigns were marked by a fervent religious zeal and the involvement of various European monarchies. The most notable crusades took place from the 11th to the 13th centuries, with the First Crusade beginning in 1096. The term has since evolved to represent any vigorous and dedicated movement toward a particular goal, especially in political or social contexts.

Synonyms

campaign, campaigning, mission, quest

Examples of usage

  • The First Crusade captured Jerusalem in 1099.
  • Many view the women's rights movement as a modern-day crusade.
  • He dedicated his life to the crusade against poverty.
  • Their crusade for environmental protection has gained international attention.
Context #2 | Verb

to campaign for

To crusade means to engage in a vigorous and passionate effort to promote or advocate for a particular cause or issue. Individuals or groups who crusade often do so with a sense of purpose and commitment, similar to the historical crusaders. The term can be applied in various contexts, ranging from social justice to political movements.

Synonyms

advocate, campaign, promote, push

Examples of usage

  • She crusaded for animal rights throughout her career.
  • The activists crusaded against climate change.
  • He is crusading for educational reform in underserved communities.

Translations

Translations of the word "crusade" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cruzada

🇮🇳 क्रूसेड

🇩🇪 Kreuzzug

🇮🇩 perang salib

🇺🇦 хрестовий похід

🇵🇱 krucjata

🇯🇵 十字軍遠征

🇫🇷 croisade

🇪🇸 cruzada

🇹🇷 haçlı seferi

🇰🇷 십자군 원정

🇸🇦 الحروب الصليبية

🇨🇿 křížová výprava

🇸🇰 krížová výprava

🇨🇳 十字军东征

🇸🇮 križarska vojna

🇮🇸 krossfarar

🇰🇿 құзырлы жорық

🇬🇪 წითელი ჯვარი

🇦🇿 məzhəb müharibəsi

🇲🇽 cruzada

Etymology

The word 'crusade' originates from the Latin 'crux', meaning 'cross', which reflects the Christian symbol that was central to the religious wars. During the late 11th century, Pope Urban II called for the First Crusade at the Council of Clermont, urging Christians to take up arms to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control. The term 'crusade' itself emerged in the Middle Ages to describe these military expeditions, which were often characterized by their religious fervor and the promise of spiritual reward. Over time, the notion of a crusade expanded beyond its initial religious context, coming to signify any vigorous campaign for a cause. This broader application is still in use today, highlighting the enduring legacy of the original crusades in both historical and modern contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,809, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.