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

Gotsch said most issues, including rising extremism and polarization, can be tied back to the lack of competition in Indiana’s elections. —Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025

Speaking with Variety ahead of the Rendez-Vous, Aubert and Bernard, director Franck Brett and producers Alexandre Charlet and Nicolas de Saint Meleuc discuss the making of the series, the impact of climate change and the fine line between activism and extremism. —Ed Meza, Variety, 2 Sep. 2025

Those studying this digital age of extremism said it is based in part on hero worship of those who have gone before them. —Natalie Eilbert, jsonline.com, 29 Aug. 2025

The Administration's extremism and incompetence are putting lives at risk. —Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Aug. 2025

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