Radical

Definition

Radical refers to relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrædɪkəl/
• Respelling: RAD-i-kul (with "RAD" as in "rad," "i" as in "bit," and "kul" as in "scull")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrædɪkəl/
• Respelling: RAD-i-kul (similar to American English, with "RAD" as in "rad," "i" as in "bit," and "kul" as in "scull")

In both dialects, "radical" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "RAD." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, emphasizing the syllable "RAD" clearly.

Etymology

Originating from the Latin "radicalis", from "radix" meaning "root". Historically, it denoted characteristics related to roots or origin.

Derivatives

• Radicalize
• Radically
• Radicalism
• Radicalness
• Radicalization

Synonyms

• Extreme
• Revolutionary
• Fundamental

Antonyms

• Conservative
• Moderate
• Traditional

Usage

"Radical" is often used in political, social, and scientific contexts to describe major, foundational changes or ideas that depart significantly from the status quo or traditional views.

Related Terms

• Radical surgery
• Radical sign (in mathematics)
• Radical reform
• Radical expression
• Free radical (in chemistry)

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Pertaining to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; advocating thorough or complete political or social change.
• Example: A radical change in the way we do business.

• Representing or supporting an extreme section of a political party.
• Example: A radical activist seeking to overthrow the government.

Noun

• A person who advocates thorough or complete political or social reform.
• Example: The assembly was dominated by socialists and radicals.

• The root or base form of a word.
• Example: The word "running" has "run" as its radical.

• A group of atoms behaving as a unit in a number of compounds.
• Example: The hydroxyl radical is highly reactive.