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Polycarp

Polycarp

1 9.9
A Greek bishop from Smyrna in the second century remembered for dying for his Christian faith
  • proper noun
  • /ˈpɒlɪkɑrp/
: Policarpo
  • The Martyrdom of Polycarp serves as the clearest example of created literary parallels between the martyr's experience and the Gospel passion narratives.
  • Martyrdom of Polycarp

Examples

  • Polycarp was the bishop of Smyrna and was burned at the stake for refusing to burn incense to the Roman emperor.

    Blog text (13)
  • As Christians, we all know in the not too distant future that we will all be hunted down, and I pray that I can be steadfast like Polycarp.

    Blog text (26)
  • Irenaeus was a student of Polycarp.

    Blog text (13)
  • The Martyrdom of St. Polycarp declares, "Blessed indeed and noble are all the martyrdoms that took place in accordance with God's will."

    Academic text (2006)
  • The Martyrdom of Polycarp, for example, depicts its hero upon his death as "crowned with the garland of immortality and the winner of an incontestable prize."

    Academic text (2006)
  • Polycarp refused to renounce his faith even when faced with death, showing great courage.

  • As a bishop of Smyrna, Polycarp became a key figure in early Christianity during his time.

  • The story of Polycarp's martyrdom is an important account in Christian history.

Synonyms

St. Polycarp
vsPolycarp
1 9.9

A Christian bishop from Smyrna who refuses to give up his faith and is burned to death

uses the plain personal name rather than the abbreviated title
Saint Polycarp
vsPolycarp
1 9.9

A Greek bishop of Smyrna in the second century who was killed for his Christian faith

uses the plain personal name without any title

Surface Forms

Polycarp main

Etymology

The name Polycarp comes from the Greek parts poly- 'many' and carpos 'fruit', so it means 'very fruitful'. As a bishop remembered for strong faith and many good deeds, the name gives a simple picture of someone who is full of good works.