Definitions

extremism

[ik-stree-miz-uhm] / ɪkˈstri mɪz əm /

NOUN

fanaticism

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bigotry hatred intolerance zeal zealotry

STRONG

abandonment arbitrariness bias contumacy dedication devotion dogma enthusiasm faction frenzy immoderation infatuation injustice madness monomania obsessiveness obstinacy partiality partisanship passion prejudice rage single-mindedness stubbornness superstition tenacity transport unfairness unruliness violence willfulness

WEAK

incorrigibility unreasonableness

Antonyms

STRONG

apathy calmness dislike doubt fairness impartiality indifference irresolution justice peace peacefulness

WEAK

disinterest unenthusiasm

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He slammed the expulsion of his ambassador, saying it smacked of "extremism."

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

The prince said he had felt the need to speak out because saying nothing allows "hate and extremism to flourish unchecked".

From BBC • May 14, 2026

Allizandra Herberhold, a nihilistic violent extremism consultant and exit interventionist who works with the nonprofit Parents for Peace, told me extreme content is used as a form of currency in these communities.

From Slate • May 12, 2026

Efforts to track groups whose hate might turn violent are further complicated by the nebulous, ever-shifting nature of extremism on social media.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

“We will defeat the forces of extremism and militancy with the power of the people,” she declared.

From "Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Changed the World" by Malala Yousafzai

Vocabulary lists containing extremism

President Biden's Inaugural Speech (January 2021)

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Ideas Live On" by Benazir Bhutto (2007)

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

“Address to the United Nations Youth Assembly” by Malala Yousafzai

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!