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.
Currently, the Dodd-Frank Act prohibits certain event betting on things like assassination and terrorism, but wildfires and other natural disasters are not included. — Brady Halbleib, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 Solomon and Hassan’s interest in cybersecurity comes from their commitment to the prevention of crime, counterfeiting, fraud, and terrorism. — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026 The United States has expanded its use of foreign terrorism designations against criminal organizations. — Robert Muggah, The Conversation, 10 Aug. 2026 Under the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan’s military has become more involved in general governance and embraced a hard-line approach to terrorism, but the security situation has only deteriorated. — Hasan Ali, Christian Science Monitor, 10 Aug. 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 18 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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