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

Moskowitz has made confronting antisemitism and political extremism a central part of his work in Congress. — Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2026

New South Wales separately passed tighter state firearms laws in December, while the federal government also strengthened laws targeting hate speech and extremism. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Instead, several foreign governments have concluded that some form of transactional relationship with the Taliban is the safest route to containing extremism, managing migration, and stabilizing the country. — Rina Amiri, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026

Critical thinking and philosophy entered high schools in 2021 to help combat extremism. — Manal Albarakati, semafor.com, 12 Aug. 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