Glossary

terrorism

ter·ror·ism, TAIR-uh-riz-uhm, noun

: the systematic use of terror, especially as a means of coercion. — Merriam-Webster

: violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences — political, religious, social, racial, or environmental in nature. — FBI (domestic terrorism)

: violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups who are inspired by, or associated with, designated foreign terrorist organizations or nations (state-sponsored). — FBI (international terrorism)

Examples:

“the fight against terrorism”

“The British Columbia prosecution service said that Lo could face more charges, but investigators ruled out terrorism and said Lo had a history of mental health issues.” —Mark Weinstein, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Apr. 2025

“If a cyberattack is to blame for the loss of power, Judge Jorge Calama would then investigate the case as a potential act of terrorism, according to court documents.” —Julia Gomez, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2025

Sources: Merriam-Webster; FBI — Terrorism

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