extreme
ihk-STREEM
Extreme (adj) means of the greatest possible degree or intensity. Example: “The region suffered extreme heat all summer.”
adj
1
Of the greatest possible degree or intensity.
"The region suffered extreme heat all summer."
"He took extreme measures to protect his family."
"Climbers must cope with extreme cold near the top of the mountain."
2
Very far from what is moderate or normal, especially in views or behaviour.
"Her political views became more extreme after the scandal."
"Most of us found his extreme opinions about the club rules hard to accept."
"The group was criticised for its extreme behaviour at the match."
noun
1
The furthest or highest point of something; one end of a range.
"The two extremes of the debate rarely find common ground."
"Her moods swung from one extreme to the other within an hour."
"At the other extreme, some people never plan anything at all."
How to use extreme
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAt the very edge or highest degree of something — intensity, opinion, or distance.
Common pairings
extreme weather
extreme measures
go to extremes
extreme views
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Word forms
- Plural
- extremes
- Comparative
- extremer, more extreme
- Superlative
- extremest, most extreme
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The region suffered _____ heat all summer.
Etymology
From Latin extrēmus, the superlative form of exter ("outer") — literally "outermost."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for extreme
See all rhymes for extreme →Frequently asked questions
What does “extreme” mean?
The word “extreme” means of the greatest possible degree or intensity. In plain terms, at the very edge or highest degree of something — intensity, opinion, or distance.
How do you pronounce “extreme”?
“Extreme” is pronounced ihk-STREEM (/ɪkˈstɹim/ in IPA).
How do you use “extreme” in a sentence?
Here is “extreme” used in a sentence: “The region suffered extreme heat all summer.”
What is another word for “extreme”?
Words with a similar meaning to “extreme” include ferocious, exquisite, intense, almighty, greatest and highest.
What is the opposite of “extreme”?
The opposite of “extreme” — its antonyms — are intermediate and least.
What part of speech is “extreme”?
Depending on how it is used, “extreme” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “extreme” come from?
The word “extreme” comes from Latin. From Latin extrēmus, the superlative form of exter ("outer") — literally "outermost.".
Is “extreme” a common word?
“Extreme” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between extreme and intense?
'Intense' describes strong force, concentration, or feeling — intense heat or an intense stare. 'Extreme' pushes further, marking the very greatest possible degree, or something far beyond what is normal or moderate. Intense heat is very hot; extreme heat is at the limit. Extreme also carries a sense of going too far.
Is extreme a positive or negative word?
It depends on context. In sport or performance, extreme can be exciting and admiring, as in extreme sports or extreme dedication. Describing opinions, weather, or behaviour, it often warns of something excessive or dangerous. The word itself is neutral, marking the greatest degree; the surrounding situation decides whether that is good or bad.
What is the opposite of extreme?
The most common opposites are 'moderate' and 'mild.' Moderate suggests a reasonable, middle level rather than the greatest possible degree, while mild suggests gentleness or low intensity. Depending on the sentence, 'average,' 'slight,' or 'reasonable' can also work as opposites of extreme.
What is an example of extreme?
Extreme describes anything at the greatest degree or intensity: extreme cold that freezes pipes, extreme caution before a risky decision, or extreme sports like skydiving. It can also mean far from the centre, as in extreme political views. In each case, it signals a limit or a departure from the moderate.
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