Terrorist Definition, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：violent political activist (terrorist)

terrorist 🔊

/ˈterərɪst/

A person who uses violence and fear, especially against civilians, to achieve political or ideological goals.

Terrorist suspect subdued by police in airport security drill

violent political activist 🔊

➕

/ˈvaɪələnt pəˈlɪtɪkəl ˈæktɪvɪst/

A person who deliberately uses violence, intimidation, and terror, especially against civilians, to further political or ideological aims.

📁 Category：Warfare & Battle 🔖 Level：Advanced

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'terrere' (to frighten) + '-ist' (agent suffix).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'terror' + 'ist' = one who spreads terror to achieve aims.

📖 Example

Airport security checks have become much stricter to prevent terrorists from boarding planes. 🔊 Airport security checks have become much stricter to prevent terrorists from boarding planes.

🔗 Collocations

terrorist attack – An act of violence carried out by terrorists.

terrorist group – An organized network of individuals who engage in terrorism.

terrorist plot – A secret plan to commit a terrorist act.

🔄 Synonyms

extremist (n.) – A person who holds extreme political or religious views, sometimes using violence.

militant (n.) – A person who is actively engaged in conflict or violence for a cause, often political.

insurgent (n.) – A person who rises in opposition against established authority, often through armed force.

🚫 Antonyms

peacemaker (n.) – A person who actively works to resolve conflict and promote peace.

humanitarian (n.) – A person dedicated to promoting human welfare and alleviating suffering.

diplomat (n.) – A person skilled in managing international relations and negotiating peacefully.

🌱 Derivatives

terrorism (n.) – The systematic use of violence and intimidation to achieve political aims.

terrorize (v.) – To fill with terror or intimidate through violence or threats.

terror (n.) – Extreme fear or the use of violence to cause fear.

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Latin 'terror' via French 'terroriste' during the French Revolution, referring to Jacobin extremists. Modern usage expanded to any person using violence for political goals.