(n) the calculated use of violence (or the threat of violence) against civilians in order to attain goals that are political or religious or ideological in nature; this is done through intimidation or coercion or instilling fear, Syn. act of terrorism, terrorist act
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)
n. [ Cf. F. terrorisme. ] 1. The act of terrorizing, or state of being terrorized; a mode of government by terror or intimidation. Jefferson. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. The practise of coercing governments to accede to political demands by committing violence on civilian targets; any similar use of violence to achieve goals. [ PJC ]