extremity

[ik-strem-i-tee]

noun

plural

extremities 

1. the extreme or terminal point, limit, or part of something.

   Synonyms: boundary, border, verge, termination, end

2. a limb of the body.

3. Usually extremities. the end part of a limb, as a hand or foot.

   to experience cold in one's extremities.

4. Often extremities. a condition or circumstance of extreme need, distress, etc..

   to suffer the extremities of being poor.

5. the utmost or any extreme degree.

   the extremity of joy.

6. an extreme or extraordinary measure, act, etc..

   to go to any extremity to feed the children.

7. extreme nature or character.

   the extremity of his views on foreign trade.

8. Archaic.,  a person's last moment before death.

extremity

/ ɪkˈstrɛmɪtɪ /

noun

1. the farthest or outermost point or section; termination

2. the greatest or most intense degree

3. an extreme condition or state, as of adversity or disease

4. a limb, such as a leg, arm, or wing, or the part of such a limb farthest from the trunk

5. archaic,  (usually plural) a drastic or severe measure

Other Word Forms

• superextremity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of extremity¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English word from Latin word extrēmitās. See extreme, -ity

Example Sentences

With 16 full-length records, many banned and censored for their grotesque album cover art, and song titles and lyrics that sparked political outrage, Cannibal Corpse built its reputation on extremity.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Like the photos taken of the violent dystopia in “Civil War,” this final sequence in “Warfare” firmly states that the loud extremities of war are one part of history.

Read more on Salon

But the whole book is a wondrous exploration of the extremities of existence.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Another problem is atrophy of the lower extremities, including weakness in the arch muscle of the foot.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Guimarães and Lancaster give themselves fearlessly over to a story that is extreme but in a way that is true to the extremity of adolescence.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• terminus