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Hysteric: meaning, definitions and examples

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hysteric

 

[ hɪˈstɛrɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

Hysteric describes a state of overwhelming emotional excitement or distress, often resulting in uncontrollable laughter or crying. It can refer to a reaction that appears extreme or exaggerated in nature. Historically, the term has also been associated with psychological conditions, where someone may act in a manner that seems irrational or excessively dramatic. In modern usage, it might describe a person who is excessively excitable or prone to panic.

Synonyms

dramatic, frantic, overemotional, overwrought

Examples of usage

  • She had a hysteric fit after receiving the news.
  • His hysteric laughter filled the room.
  • The situation turned hysteric when the fire alarm went off.

Translations

Translations of the word "hysteric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 histérico

🇮🇳 हिस्टेरिक

🇩🇪 hysterisch

🇮🇩 histeris

🇺🇦 істеричний

🇵🇱 histeryczny

🇯🇵 ヒステリック

🇫🇷 hystérique

🇪🇸 histérico

🇹🇷 histerik

🇰🇷 히스테릭

🇸🇦 هيستيري

🇨🇿 hysterický

🇸🇰 hysterický

🇨🇳 歇斯底里

🇸🇮 histeričen

🇮🇸 hystera

🇰🇿 гистерикалық

🇬🇪 ჰისტერიული

🇦🇿 histerik

🇲🇽 histérico

Word origin

The term 'hysteric' originates from the Greek word 'hystera,' meaning womb. Historically, it was used in medical contexts to describe conditions thought to be caused by disturbances in the female reproductive system. In the 19th century, 'hysteria' was classified as a psychological disorder that primarily affected women, often associated with a wide array of symptoms including anxiety, emotional instability, and physical manifestations. The term evolved over time, and its meanings expanded beyond medical settings. In contemporary language, 'hysteric' typically refers to anyone exhibiting extreme emotional reactions, regardless of gender. The term has often carried societal implications, reflecting historical attitudes towards women and mental health.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,268 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.