extremism

noun

ex·​trem·​ism ik-ˈstrē-ˌmi-zəm 

1

: the quality or state of being extreme

2

: advocacy of extreme measures or views : radicalism

extremist

ik-ˈstrē-mist 

noun or adjective

Examples of extremism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What readers are saying The comments express strong criticism of Israeli settler violence, with many labeling it as terrorism or ethnic cleansing rather than mere extremism. — Steve Hendrix, Washington Post, 8 Nov. 2026

But the special interest groups and extremism have tightened their grips on both parties, turning things ugly. — Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 8 Nov. 2026

There are other indicators that voters want moderation, not extremism. — Krista Kafer, Denver Post, 6 Nov. 2026

Its founder, far-right activist Vladislav Pozdnyakov, was sentenced to two years probation for inciting hatred toward women, but his sentence was overturned just three months later when Russia changed its laws on political extremism. — Tom Sanders, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

extremism

noun

ex·​trem·​ism ik-ˈstrē-ˌmiz-əm 

1

: the quality or state of being extreme

2

: belief in and support for extreme ideas especially in politics

extremist

-məst 

noun or adjective