# fundamentalist

/ˌfəndəˈmɛnəɫɪst/ (US) · /fˌʌndəmˈɛntəlˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fundamentalist
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

someone who follows the basic rules of their religion or beliefs very strictly. They usually believe that their holy books are completely true and should not be changed.

For teachers: an adherent of a movement or point of view characterized by a return to fundamental principles and rigid adherence to basic tenets. Often carries a pejorative connotation when used by outsiders to describe religious or political extremism.

## Examples

- The fundamentalist refused to accept any changes to the ancient laws.
- Sociologists studied how the fundamentalist group maintained its strict social boundaries in a rapidly modernizing city.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a modifier before another noun (e.g., 'fundamentalist views').

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