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

Derived Forms

• ˈdrastically, adverb

Other Words From

• dras·ti·cal·ly 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

“We do not anticipate that the Missouri ballot initiative will have an immediate or drastic impact on those numbers.”

From Salon

Another more drastic solution would be for the government to step in and do something about it.

From Slate

Among other world leaders to take to the stage on Tuesday was Spain's prime minister, who called for "drastic measures" after floods killed more than 200 people in the country.

From BBC

Many young Burmese have taken drastic measures to resist the conscription order.

From BBC

A drastic increase in deportations would likely entail a large expansion in the immigration court system, which has been beset by backlogs.

From BBC

Related Words

• dire
• forceful
• harsh
• radical