also: じんちゅう
human pillar; ritual human sacrifice
Historical term for the practice of burying a living person under or near a large construction project to invoke divine protection.
There is a legend that in the past, human pillars were used when building bridges or castles.
person who died for a cause; martyr
Refers to someone who sacrificed their life for a greater purpose, often used in a solemn or respectful context.
He became a martyr for freedom.
guinea pig; test subject; sacrificial lamb; early adopter
Colloquial use for someone who tries a new product or service first, often at personal risk. Can be read じんちゅう in this sense.
I became a guinea pig for the new service and reported bugs.
He's always an early adopter of the latest gadgets.