殉 (xùn) originally meant to be buried alongside a deceased lord — see
殉葬 (xùnzàng, immolation/burial sacrifice). Extended to
殉情 (die for love),
殉职 (xùnzhí, die in the line of duty),
殉国 (xùnguó, die for one's country). The character carries weight of ritual, willing self-sacrifice.
