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.
This is nothing more than a desperate attempt to hide his own extremism and Texans will see right through it. — Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 Throughout these years, the seeds of extremism that would forcefully erupt on January 6, 2021, were germinating. — Literary Hub, 25 Aug. 2026 The indictment became a rallying point to discredit not only the SPLC but the wider body of research on hate groups and political extremism. — Art Jipson, The Conversation, 20 Aug. 2026 Moskowitz has made confronting antisemitism and political extremism a central part of his work in Congress. — Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 19 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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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