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

The arrest and potential removal of such collateral arrests would mark a drastic departure from the Biden administration, which has focused on public safety threats and deporting people soon after their apprehension at the border.

From BBC

Mr Blackburn said a normal Monday took a drastic turn after the unplanned visit.

From BBC

Kennedy and his anti-vaccine nonprofit Children’s Health Defense took the opportunity to spread falsehoods about vaccinations across the island, leading a drastic decline in vaccination rates.

From Salon

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

From Salon

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

Related Words

• dire
• forceful
• harsh
• radical