Definition of RADICAL (original) (raw)
1
: of, relating to, or proceeding from a root: such as
a(1)
: of or growing from the root of a plant
(2)
: growing from the base of a stem, from a rootlike stem, or from a stem that does not rise above the ground
b
: of, relating to, or constituting a linguistic root
c
: of or relating to a mathematical root
d
: designed to remove the root of a disease or all diseased and potentially diseased tissue
3
a
: very different from the usual or traditional : extreme
b
: favoring extreme changes in existing views, habits, conditions, or institutions
c
: associated with political views, practices, and policies of extreme change
d
: advocating extreme measures to retain or restore a political state of affairs
2
b
: a sound or letter belonging to a radical
4
: [free radical](/dictionary/free radical)
also : a group of atoms bonded together that is considered an entity in various kinds of reactions or as a subunit of a larger molecule
5
a
: a mathematical expression indicating a root by means of a radical sign
Synonyms
Examples of radical in a Sentence
Adjective
The computer has introduced radical innovations. There are some radical differences between the two proposals. The new president has made some radical changes to the company. a radical wing of extremists Noun
He was a radical when he was young, but now he's much more moderate. radicals staged large, violent protests in the hopes of toppling the government
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Assassinations can also elevate more radical or more effective leaders. —
Sarah E. Parkinson, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2024 This makes Godot feel like a free-flowing, creative instrument users share and improve together as a radical hacker collective. —PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024
My opponent also aligns herself with political radicals who view the justice system as a means to help and serve criminals, as opposed to victims of crime and our community. —Sharon Coolidge, The Enquirer, 27 Oct. 2024 Selenium can prevent oxidative damage in the body, fight off radicals, and improve cell function.14 Selenium deficiencies have been linked to thyroid problems, decreased immune system function, hormonal imbalance, mood disorders, and heart disease. 7. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for radical 
Word History
Etymology
Adjective
Middle English, from Late Latin radicalis, from Latin radic-, radix root — more at root
First Known Use
Adjective
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Noun
1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Time Traveler
The first known use of radical was in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near radical
Cite this Entry
“Radical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radical. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.
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Last Updated: 17 Nov 2024 - Updated example sentences
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