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Crusader Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crusader

[ˈkruːˌseɪ.dər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

historical

A Crusader was a Christian warrior who fought in the religious wars known as the Crusades. They were typically motivated by a combination of religious fervor and a desire for wealth and land. The Crusaders traveled to the Holy Land to reclaim Jerusalem and other important Christian sites from Muslim control.

Synonyms

knight, paladin, templar.

Examples of usage

  • Richard the Lionheart was one of the most famous Crusaders.
  • The Crusaders wore a distinctive cross on their armor.
Context #2 | Noun

modern

In a more modern context, a Crusader can refer to someone who is passionately dedicated to a cause or principle, often to the point of being seen as aggressive or overly zealous.

Synonyms

advocate, champion, fighter.

Examples of usage

  • She was a crusader for social justice.
  • He was known as a crusader against corruption.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originated from the Latin 'crux', meaning 'cross', referring to those who fought in the Christian Crusades during the Middle Ages.
  • Crusaders traveled to the Holy Land, aiming to reclaim sacred sites from those who were not Christian.
  • The First Crusade commenced in 1096 and led to the capture of Jerusalem in 1099.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary contexts, 'crusader' describes activists working for social, political, or environmental reforms.
  • Organizations often honor individuals as 'crusaders' for promoting justice and advocating for change.
  • The name evokes the spirit of determination and commitment to a cause, regardless of the modern issue at hand.

Literature

  • Literature and movies often portray crusaders as noble figures, symbolizing the fight for good versus evil.
  • The theme of crusading appears in many genres, including fantasy, where characters might be on 'crusades' against darkness or tyranny.
  • Authors like Sir Walter Scott romanticized the journeys of historical crusaders in their stories.

Psychology

  • The desire to crusade often stems from a strong personal belief system or ideology, motivating individuals to act.
  • Crusading behavior can be linked to moral conviction and the need for social validation, driving collective efforts in movements.
  • Psychological studies indicate that people are more likely to become crusaders in groups, as community support enhances commitment.

Pop Culture

  • Video games and movies frequently feature characters modeled after historical crusaders, focusing on their battles and quests.
  • Songs and artistic works often reference crusaders as symbols of hope or rebellion against injustice.
  • The representation of crusaders in pop culture influences how society perceives activism and fighting for beliefs today.

Origin of 'crusader'

The term 'Crusader' originated from the Latin word 'cruciātus', meaning 'marked with a cross'. It gained prominence during the medieval Crusades, a series of religious wars sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period. The Crusades were launched in response to a call from the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos to help repel Muslim invasions of Anatolia. Over time, the term 'Crusader' has evolved to also represent those who fervently advocate for a cause or principle.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,140, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.