radical

Derived from the Latin 'radicalis', from 'radix', meaning 'root'.

NOUN (1)
[/ˈræd.ɪ.kəl/en-US]
radical literal / extremista formalpolitical / revolucionario political / fundamentalista formalreligious
Synonyms extremist formalpolitical , revolutionary political , fundamentalist formalreligious
Antonyms moderate , conservative

A person who advocates for thorough or extreme political or social reform, often departing significantly from conventional or traditional views.

plural
radicals
  • The party was concerned about the growing influence of the radical elements within its ranks. — The political group was worried about members with extreme views.
  • He was considered a radical for his revolutionary ideas on education. — His revolutionary educational ideas made him seem unconventional.
fields: [politics society] register: neutral
ADJ (1)
[/ˈræd.ɪ.kəl/en-US]
Synonyms extreme , drastic , fundamental
Antonyms mild , superficial

Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough. It can also describe something extreme or drastic.

  • The company implemented radical changes to its organizational structure. — The company made very thorough and fundamental changes to how it was organized.
  • A radical solution was needed to address the root cause of the problem. — A fundamental and drastic solution was required to fix the underlying issue.
  • The new art exhibit featured some truly radical concepts. — The art exhibit showcased very new, extreme, or unconventional ideas.
register: neutral