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Overactive: meaning, definitions and examples

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overactive

 

[ ˌoʊvərˈæktɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavioral traits

The term 'overactive' refers to being excessively active beyond what is normal or necessary. It is often used to describe individuals who display heightened levels of activity, energy, or engagement in certain behaviors. This characteristic can manifest in various aspects of life, including physical, mental, or emotional contexts. Commonly, the term is associated with hyperactivity, particularly in children, where it may affect their ability to focus or engage in calm activities.

Synonyms

energetic, exuberant, frenetic, hyperactive, restless

Examples of usage

  • The child was diagnosed with ADHD and labeled as overactive.
  • Her overactive imagination led her to create elaborate stories.
  • My overactive mind kept me awake at night.
  • He has an overactive lifestyle, rarely sitting still.

Translations

Translations of the word "overactive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hiperativo

🇮🇳 अत्यधिक सक्रिय

🇩🇪 überaktiv

🇮🇩 aktif berlebihan

🇺🇦 гіперактивний

🇵🇱 nadmiernie aktywny

🇯🇵 過活動的

🇫🇷 hyperactif

🇪🇸 hiperactivo

🇹🇷 hiperaktif

🇰🇷 과잉 활동적인

🇸🇦 مفرط النشاط

🇨🇿 hyperaktivní

🇸🇰 hyperaktívny

🇨🇳 过度活跃

🇸🇮 hiperaktiven

🇮🇸 ofuraktív

🇰🇿 гиперактивті

🇬🇪 ჰიპერაქტიური

🇦🇿 hiperaktiv

🇲🇽 hiperactivo

Etymology

The word 'overactive' is formed by the prefix 'over-' which means excessive or too much, and the root 'active' which comes from the Latin 'activus', meaning 'doing' or 'effecting'. The prefix and root combined suggest an exaggerated state of activity. This term began gaining traction in the English language during the late 20th century, particularly in discussions surrounding behavioral and psychological conditions. The concept of being overactive has often been associated with various conditions, especially in children, and has prompted research into its implications on behavior and mental health. Over the years, the understanding of overactivity has expanded, influencing perspectives in both educational and clinical settings.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,405 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.