extreme

Extreme is an adjective used to describe something that lies at the outer edge of a range, exceeds usual limits, or is highly unusual. In science and mathematics the term is used for properties at maximum or minimum values, and in everyday language it denotes intense or radical characteristics.

In mathematics and statistics, extrema refer to local and global maximum and minimum points of a function. Extrema can be classified as absolute or relative. Extreme Value Theory studies the behavior of the tails of probability distributions and the occurrence of rare events.

In meteorology, hydrology and climatology, extreme events are unusual disturbances such as heat waves, cold snaps, heavy rainfall, droughts, or severe storms. These events are often characterized by their rarity and potential for significant impact, and are analyzed for risk assessment and planning.

In sports and recreation, extreme sports are activities perceived as high risk, such as BASE jumping, wingsuit flying, free solo climbing, ice climbing, and extreme downhill sports. They emphasize control, skill, and safety protocols to manage inherent dangers.

In arts and entertainment, the term is used as a proper noun. Extreme is an American rock band formed in Massachusetts in 1985. They achieved commercial breakthrough with the 1990 album Pornograffiti, and the single More Than Words became a worldwide hit, reaching the top of charts in several countries. The band followed with subsequent releases and toured globally in the 1990s.