terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm 

: the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion

Examples of terrorism in a Sentence

They have been arrested for acts of terrorism.

Recent Examples on the Web

On Saturday night, Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez travelled to Cauca and pledged a crackdown on terrorism. —Alfie Pannell, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026

Gaza’s suffering can’t be explained solely by fear of terrorism. —Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 26 Apr. 2026

With Iran being on the world stage even more today, this story of hostage diplomacy and diplomatic terrorism remains as relevant as ever. —Kevin Giraud, Variety, 24 Apr. 2026

The trio are among 61 defendants previously charged with domestic terrorism and racketeering. —Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing terrorism

• anti-terrorism
• counter-terrorism
• narco-terrorism
• state terrorism

Rhymes for terrorism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism

Kids Definition

terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌiz-əm 

: the use of terror as a means of achieving a goal

terrorist

-ər-əst 

adjective or noun

Legal Definition

terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm 

1

: the unlawful use or threat of violence especially against the state or the public as a politically motivated means of attack or coercion

2

: violent and intimidating gang activity

street terrorism

terrorist

-ist 

adjective or noun

terroristic

ˌter-ər-ˈis-tik 

adjective