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

So far, experts in extremism have tracked Young Columbia members' activity in Wisconsin and Illinois, where young women have been documented distributing propaganda and meeting up with male Youth Club members. — Lauren Fichten, CBS News, 25 June 2026

The number of annual antisemitic incidents in Germany remains at a high, with right-wing extremism surging, according to a report issued on June 17 by the country’s leading antisemitism watchdog. — Toby Axelrod, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026

Such experiences do not automatically lead to political extremism. — Scott Atran, The Conversation, 17 June 2026

Sabellico had characterized his campaign as one opposing extremism, while Allman billed his as focused on improving academics and transparency. — Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 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