What does martially mean?
Martially means in a manner connected with war, military force, or fighting. It is often used when describing an action or response as forceful, hostile, or threatening: “The protesters were dispersed in a martially manner.” The adverb can describe literal military action, as in “the commander demanded a martially decisive response,” but it is also used figuratively for an attitude or approach that is severe, combative, or intended to intimidate. Because the word is relatively formal and somewhat literary, clear alternatives such as militarily, aggressively, or violently may be preferable in ordinary speech. Its unusual history comes from martial, which is based on Mars, the Roman god of war, through Latin.
adverbIn a manner associated with war, military force, or fighting. It can also describe behavior that is forceful, combative, or intended to intimidate.
- In the manner of war, military action, or fighting.
- In a forceful, aggressive, or threatening manner.
"The two rival groups responded martially, issuing threats and positioning their forces."
"The accused was charged with acting martially toward the crowd."
"Her response was stern and almost martially, but she ultimately chose negotiation."
The word “martially” descends from Mars, the Roman god of war, via the Latin adjective martialis, meaning “of or belonging to Mars.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does martially come from?
The English adverb comes from martial, an adjective derived from Latin martialis, “of or belonging to Mars.” Mars was the Roman god of war, and the Latin root martius referred to war or military affairs. English borrowed the adjective during the 16th century, and the adverb martially was formed later with the suffix -ly. The same Roman source also underlies the name Mars and the Latin form martius.
Related word forms
How martially is actually used
Martially is formal and relatively uncommon. It can describe actual military conduct or, figuratively, an aggressive and threatening manner.