terrorism

noun

ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
Synonyms of terrorism
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In September 2024, China’s public-security minister signed a training agreement with Nicaragua’s police director covering narcotics, cybercrime, and terrorism; previously, China had given Nicaragua equipment for riot control. — Natalia Cote-Muñoz, Foreign Affairs, 3 Aug. 2026 The crime prompted an extraordinary wave of demonstrations across Spain and became a turning point in the country’s public response to ETA terrorism. — Emiliano De Pablos, Variety, 3 Aug. 2026 Zardari and Sharif also said Pakistan’s fight against terrorism would continue until it is eradicated. — CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026 On 29 July, Russia’s Federal Security Service charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with aiding terrorism and placed him on an international wanted list. — Susie Violet Ward, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for terrorism

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of terrorism was in 1795

Phrases Containing terrorism

Rhymes for terrorism

See All Rhymes for terrorism

Browse Nearby Words

terrorise
terrorism
terrorist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terrorism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrorism. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

terrorism

noun
ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
: the use of terror as a means of achieving a goal
terrorist
-ər-əst How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
adjective or noun

Legal Definition

terrorism

noun
ter·​ror·​ism ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
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 How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
adjective or noun
terroristic
ˌter-ər-ˈis-tik How to pronounce terrorism (audio)
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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