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.

A German Jew in Tokyo during the early 20th century becomes a spy reporting on the rise of extremism in Japan.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 26, 2026

China vehemently denies these allegations, saying its policies have rooted out extremism in Xinjiang and boosted economic development.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

This is one of the ways extremism develops broadly, especially for teenagers, online.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 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

“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)

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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

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!