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

For many Jewish Americans, the antisemitic incidents have confirmed longstanding fears about the rise of antisemitism, as well as the need to vigorously counter extremism and live their faith undaunted by threats. —Arkansas Online, 26 Mar. 2026

For many Jewish Americans, the antisemitic incidents have confirmed longstanding fears about the rise of antisemitism, as well as the need to vigorously counter extremism and live their faith undaunted by threats. —ABC News, 24 Mar. 2026

Obi Anyadike is Senior Africa Editor at The New Humanitarian, with a focus on violent extremism. —Obi Anyadike, semafor.com, 23 Mar. 2026

Experts on extremism and jihadist terrorism said this pledge of allegiance is an important aspect of these attacks for the individual terrorist, for the group and for the American legal system. —Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 22 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for extremism

• endemism

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