terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm 

: the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion

Examples of terrorism in a Sentence

They have been arrested for acts of terrorism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Applying terrorism designations to criminal syndicates, Brazilian officials say, conflicts with domestic legal definitions and risks blurring distinctions underpinning international counterterrorism law. —Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 1 June 2026

An act of terrorism against a San Diego mosque last month, in which two teenagers are accused of killing three people, should deeply disturb every American. —Editorial, Boston Herald, 1 June 2026

Federal prosecutors said that Perez is currently serving a nine-year sentence after pleading guilty in May 2023 to three counts of being a felon in possession of firearms, because his criminal record includes felony convictions of street terrorism and assault with a deadly weapon in Ventura County. —Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 31 May 2026

People charged with terrorism offenses can only be released on bail in exceptional circumstances. —ABC News, 31 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing terrorism

• anti-terrorism
• counter-terrorism
• narco-terrorism
• state terrorism

Rhymes for terrorism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌiz-əm 

: the use of terror as a means of achieving a goal

terrorist

-ər-əst 

adjective or noun

Legal Definition

terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm 

1

: the unlawful use or threat of violence especially against the state or the public as a politically motivated means of attack or coercion

2

: violent and intimidating gang activity

street terrorism

terrorist

-ist 

adjective or noun

terroristic

ˌter-ər-ˈis-tik 

adjective