extremism

noun

ex·​trem·​ism ik-ˈstrē-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce extremism (audio)
Synonyms of extremismnext
1
: the quality or state of being extreme
2
: advocacy of extreme measures or views : radicalism
extremist
ik-ˈstrē-mist How to pronounce extremism (audio)
noun or adjective

Examples of extremism 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.
Its wider Sahel region is the world’s deadliest area for extremism. — Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026 Its wider Sahel region is the world’s deadliest region for extremism. — ABC News, 27 June 2026 Concha argued that her positions and rhetoric reflect a broader shift in the Democratic Party toward socialism and extremism. — Kiara Moore, The Washington Examiner, 30 June 2026 The tension is playing out in public as leaders including Marco Rubio fight back against extremism while others such as JD Vance make overtures to the fringe. — Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for extremism

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of extremism was in 1865

Browse Nearby Words

extreme unction
extremism
extremist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extremism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/extremism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

extremism

noun
ex·​trem·​ism ik-ˈstrē-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce extremism (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being extreme
2
: belief in and support for extreme ideas especially in politics
extremist
-məst How to pronounce extremism (audio)
noun or adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on extremism

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for extremism

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