Hyperbolic: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used primarily in mathematical contexts to describe geometric shapes involved in hyperbolas, but also can describe language that is exaggerated and not meant to be taken literally.

• The engineer designed a structure with a hyperbolic curve.
• His hyperbolic claims made it hard to believe anything he said.

Use this word when describing something that has a rounded or smoothly bending shape but not necessarily a precise mathematical form.

• The road ahead is curved.
• She has a beautifully curved arch in her foot.

Commonly used in mathematical and physics contexts to describe parabolas, can also describe something shaped like a parabola.

• The parabolic trajectory is important in physics when studying projectiles.
• Satellite dishes have a parabolic shape to focus signals.

This word is best used in scientific or formal contexts, especially to describe the shape of an ellipse or oval.

• The planets move in elliptical orbits around the sun.
• He prefers elliptical running tracks because they are gentler on his knees.

Use 'hyperbolic' when referring to something being exaggerated to an extreme degree, often to create a dramatic or humorous effect. It is commonly used in literary and rhetorical contexts.

• The author's hyperbolic descriptions made the story very entertaining.
• His hyperbolic claims about his athletic abilities amused everyone.

Use 'exaggerated' for stating that something is made to seem larger or more significant than it actually is. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.

• The news report gave an exaggerated account of the incident.
• Her stories are always a bit exaggerated, but that's what makes them fun.

Use 'overblown' to describe something that has been made to seem more important or significant than it actually is, often with a negative implication of being unnecessarily excessive.

• The movie received overblown praise from critics.
• Her concern about the issue seemed a bit overblown.

Use 'inflated' when referring to something that has been increased beyond the normal or truthful amount, often to deceive or impress. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• The company's inflated earnings reports led to legal trouble.
• He gave an inflated account of his role in the project.