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.

But Joe Mulhall, the research director of Hope not Hate, a campaign group focused on combating extremism on what they describe as the far right, has stronger words.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Another way extremism can develop is when a young person is looking for belonging.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

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

From Barron's • May 20, 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

I was slightly giddy with the force of his personality but the extremism of the offer was appealing as well.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Vocabulary lists containing extremism

President Biden's Inaugural Speech (January 2021)

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"Ideas Live On" by Benazir Bhutto (2007)

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

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