Extremist
/ɪkˈstrɛmɪst/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who holds or advocates extreme political or religious views, especially one who resorts to or supports violence.
/ɪkˈstrɛmɪst/
A person who holds extreme political or religious views.
The country is facing threats from extremist groups.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone with very, very strong beliefs who might do something drastic because of them. Like, if you really, really hate broccoli and you say you would do anything to get rid of it… well, maybe an extremist would actually *do* something extreme about broccoli!
👶 For kids: Someone who has very strong opinions and might do things others think are a bit crazy because of their opinions.
More Examples
The news reported on an extremist involved in a terrorist plot.
She was accused of being an extremist for her radical ideas.
How It's Used
"The government is taking action against extremist groups."
"Religious extremists were responsible for the attacks."
"Extremists can employ violence in their agendas."
Holding or advocating extreme political or religious views, often implying a willingness to use violence or coercion to achieve them.
/ɪkˈstrɛmɪst/
Having or showing extreme political or religious views.
The government is concerned about extremist ideologies.
💡 Simply: When something is called extremist, it means it's pretty out there and beyond what most people think is normal or okay. Like, if you think everyone should have to wear the same clothes everyday, that would be an extremist viewpoint on fashion!
👶 For kids: Describing something as extremist means it's a very strong and unusual idea or opinion that not many people share.
More Examples
The group's methods are considered extremist by many.
She was labeled an extremist due to her radical political stances.
How It's Used
"The newspaper accused the politician of holding extremist views."
"The sermon was said to contain extremist ideas."
"Extremist actions threaten world peace."
Idioms & expressions
extremist group
A group of people who hold or advocate extremist political or religious views.
"The police are monitoring several extremist groups."
extremist ideology
The set of ideas and beliefs held by extremists.
"The spread of extremist ideologies is a major concern."
From French extrémiste, from extrême ('extreme'), ultimately from Latin extremus ('farthest').
The term 'extremist' gained prominence in the 20th and 21st centuries, reflecting increasing concern over political and religious radicalism.
Memory tip
Think of someone at the *extreme* end of an opinion, willing to take *extreme* actions.