terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
: the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion

Examples of terrorism in a Sentence

They have been arrested for acts of terrorism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The judge said the evidence presented to the grand jury was insufficient to support the terrorism charge. Aaron Katersky, ABC News, 11 Oct. 2025 Experts agree that other religions, including Muslims, are also affected by the terrorism sweeping the country, but multiple advocates still believe that Christians are being disproportionately targeted for their religion, especially in the Middle Belt. Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025 Separate from the state case, federal authorities also initiated an investigation into the terrorism charges. Jim Riccioli, jsonline.com, 7 Oct. 2025 Authorities said those detained will face terrorism and attempted murder charges. Isa Cardona, CNN Money, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for terrorism

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of terrorism was in 1795

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terrorism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrorism. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

terrorism

noun
ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
: the use of terror as a means of achieving a goal
terrorist adjective or noun

Legal Definition

terrorism

noun
ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
1
: the unlawful use or threat of violence especially against the state or the public as a politically motivated means of attack or coercion
2
: violent and intimidating gang activity
street terrorism
terrorist adjective or noun
terroristic adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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