radicalism

noun

rad·​i·​cal·​ism ˈra-di-kə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce radicalism (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being radical
2
: the doctrines or principles of radicals

Examples of radicalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Democrats’ new embrace of immigration radicalism is being led by none other than Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA), who initially seemed desirous of presiding over a pivot back to the center. W. James Antle Iii, The Washington Examiner, 13 June 2025 Her life read a bit like a cautionary tale against the rigidities of radicalism. Hazlitt, 11 June 2025 But that reputation for radicalism was a little misleading. Louis Menand, New Yorker, 26 May 2025 As is frequently the case in America these days, those looking for ways to blame an act of terror on distinctly right-wing or leftist extremism will find that the truth lies in a baffling and murky middle where contrary strains of radicalism converge. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for radicalism

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of radicalism was in 1817

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Radicalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radicalism. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

radicalism

noun
rad·​i·​cal·​ism ˈrad-i-kə-ˌliz-əm How to pronounce radicalism (audio)
: the quality or state of being radical

More from Merriam-Webster on radicalism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!