Synonyms for

Terrorist

Verb / ˈterɜ:ɪst / Another word for terrorist — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who uses violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims.

Synonyms & similar words

extremist militant radical insurgent guerrilla bomber assassin hijacker saboteur subversive traitor rebel revolutionary zealot fanatic fundamentalist jihadist martyr

Synonyms by register

Formal

insurgent extremist subversive

Informal

thug goon hoodlum

Literary

zealot fanatic

Antonyms

patriot freedom fighter rebel activist liberator dissident

Common collocations

  • terrorist attack
  • terrorist group
  • terrorist organization
  • terrorist act
  • state-sponsored terrorist
  • domestic terrorist
  • international terrorist

Word family

noun terrorism
verb terrorize
adjective terroristic

Usage note

The term 'terrorist' is highly charged and often used pejoratively. Its antonyms are context-dependent and can be controversial.

Example sentences

  1. The terrorist attack killed many innocent people.
  2. The government is taking measures to prevent terrorist attacks.
  3. The terrorist group was planning to bomb the embassy.
  4. The terrorist was sentenced to life in prison for his crimes.
  5. The terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Quotes

  • Terrorism is the tactic of demanding the impossible, and demanding it at gunpoint. - Christopher Hitchens
  • Terrorism is a real despair. These are people for whom life has been so negative that they're willing to die if they can take down some of their enemies. - Norman Schwarzkopf
  • Terrorism is not a way to fight against colonization. It has never succeeded in history. - Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie

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