drastic

[dras-tik]

adjective

1. extremely severe or extensive.

   a drastic tax-reduction measure.

2. (of medicines) acting with force or violence.

   a drastic laxative.

drastic

/ ˈdræstɪk /

adjective

1. extreme or forceful; severe

Other Word Forms

• drastically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of drastic¹

First recorded in 1685–95; from Greek drastikós “active,” equivalent to drast(ós) (verbal adjective of drân “to do”) + -ikos adjective suffix ( -ic )

Word History and Origins

Origin of drastic¹

C17: from Greek drastikos, from dran to do, act

Example Sentences

“Their drastic pullback in production and employment led to a pretty severe industry contraction that has contributed to some strain on our funds. We’ll be looking to them to help fix that with us.”

From Los Angeles Times

In fact, every couple of releases the group takes a drastic shift into unexpected territory.

From Los Angeles Times

These problems include their batting weakness against spin, a drastic need to improve their fielding and how they cope with pressure situations or must-win moments.

From BBC

Pinter said that could mean drastic changes, possibly dismantling a half-century of U.S. policy on dealing with natural disasters.

From Los Angeles Times

Such a drastic and sudden change in his approach is probably a last-ditch move in order to salvage more time.

From BBC

Related Words

• dire 
• forceful 
• harsh 
• radical