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

Mangione, 26, was charged with one count of first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism and two counts of second-degree murder, including a count of murder in the second degree as an act of terrorism. —Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 18 Dec. 2024

Today's top stories Luigi Mangione has been indicted for murder as an act of terrorism for the killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 18 Dec. 2024

Mangione, 26, is charged with one count of first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder, including one killing as an act of terrorism. —Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

The 26-year-old is charged with one count of first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism and two counts of second-degree murder, one of which is charged as killing as an act of terrorism. —Sara Salinas, CNBC, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing terrorism

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

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