fanaticism

noun

fa·​nat·​i·​cism fə-ˈna-tə-ˌsi-zəm 

: fanatic outlook or behavior

Examples of fanaticism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In Paul’s time, Josephus was a perfect instance of the first kind, a brilliant military leader who, when faced with the fanaticism of his cohorts, chose to shift his allegiance to Rome. —Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026

As much as an institutional critique, Szpila has given us a parable on the dangers of fanaticism and the necessity of radicalism, and the obvious parallel between the rigidity of belief systems. —Literary Hub, 9 Apr. 2026

For 47 years, this has been a regime hellbent on one thing only — exporting destabilization all over the world to suit their religious fanaticism. —Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 5 Apr. 2026

Others are fighting religious fanaticism in their communities or are looking for a place to discuss their own spiritual journeys. —Alexei Koseff, San Francisco Chronicle, 16 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fanaticism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism

Medical Definition

fanaticism

noun

fa·​nat·​i·​cism fə-ˈnat-ə-ˌsiz-əm 

: fanatic outlook or behavior especially as exhibited by excessive enthusiasm, unreasoning zeal, or wild and extravagant notions on some subject