What does crusade mean? Explained

Pronunciation

/krʊˈseɪd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A series of actions or activities undertaken to achieve a particular goal or objective, often with a sense of urgency or moral imperative.

Examples

• The environmentalist launched a crusade to reduce plastic waste in the city.
• The politician’s crusade against corruption won her widespread support.

Synonyms

• Campaign
• Mission

Antonyms

• Apathy
• Indifference

Additional Information

A crusade often involves a strong sense of conviction and determination to achieve a specific objective. It can be a personal or collective effort, and may involve various strategies and tactics to reach the desired goal. Crusades can be undertaken in various areas, such as politics, social justice, environmentalism, or religion.

In modern usage, the term crusade has taken on a broader meaning, encompassing any concerted effort to achieve a particular goal or objective. This can include charity fundraisers, awareness campaigns, or other forms of collective action.

Etimology

The word crusade originates from the Latin “crux,” meaning cross, and was initially used to describe the medieval military campaigns sanctified by the Catholic Church. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings and connotations.

Usage Notes

When using the word crusade, it’s essential to consider the context and connotations. In some cases, the term may evoke negative associations with historical events or imply a sense of righteous zealotry. In other contexts, it can convey a sense of determination and commitment to a noble cause.

Cultural References

The concept of a crusade has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including literature, film, and music. Examples include the Crusades depicted in the movie “Kingdom of Heaven” and the song “Crusade” by the heavy metal band Saxon.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Take up the crusade: to adopt or support a particular cause or mission.

Related Words or Phrases

Crusader, crusading, crusadism

Collocations

launch a crusade, wage a crusade, join a crusade

Frequency of Use

The word crusade is moderately common in modern language, often appearing in news headlines, political rhetoric, and social media discourse.

Common Misspellings

crusaid, crusayd, crusadeing