extremity

noun

ex·​trem·​i·​ty ik-ˈstre-mə-tē 

plural extremities

1

a

: the farthest or most remote part, section, or point

the island's westernmost extremity

b

: a limb of the body

especially : a human hand or foot

2

a

: extreme danger or critical need

b

: a moment marked by imminent destruction or death

3

a

: an intense degree

… the extremity of his participation.

—Saturday Rev.

b

: the utmost degree (as of emotion or pain)

4

: a drastic or desperate act or measure

driven to extremities

Synonyms of extremity

• crisis
• head

Examples of extremity in a Sentence

The extremity of her grief is impossible to imagine.

made offers of aid to the refugees, and of asylum in extremity

Recent Examples on the Web

Body tissue is damaged, and extremities like fingers, toes, ear lobes and the tip of the nose can become numb and appear white or pale. —Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 26 Jan. 2026

To protect against the cold, Sobti also recommends covering your mouth, nose and extremities, wearing a hat and gloves, and using extra caution in windy conditions. —Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 23 Jan. 2026

For my climbing partner who suffers from chilly extremities, La Sportiva Olympus Mons, with even more insulation and integrated overboots, were a one-stop shop. —Outside, 23 Jan. 2026

As the body conserves heat, circulation may be redirected toward vital organs, reducing blood flow to joints in the extremities. —Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 23 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

extremity

noun

ex·​trem·​i·​ty ik-ˈstrem-ət-ē 

plural extremities

1

: the farthest limit, point, or part

2

: an end part of a limb of the body (as a hand or foot)

3

: an extreme degree (as of emotion or pain)

Medical Definition

extremity

noun

ex·​trem·​i·​ty ik-ˈstrem-ət-ē 

plural extremities

1

: the farthest or most remote part, section, or point

2

: a limb of the body

especially : a human hand or foot