Overwrought: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used when someone is excessively anxious, excited, or agitated, usually to the point that they have trouble thinking clearly. It conveys a sense of being emotionally overwhelmed and is often seen in more formal or literary contexts.

• She was overwrought with worry about the exam results.
• The overwrought actor couldn't remember his lines.

Use this word when someone is visibly upset or nervous, often due to stress or excitement. It implies a heightened emotional state but not necessarily a loss of control.

• He paced back and forth, clearly agitated about the meeting.
• The dog became agitated when it saw a stranger.

A term that refers to extreme and uncontrollable emotions, often causing irrational behavior. It can carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of control and excessive reaction.

• She was hysterical after the argument, unable to calm down.
• The witness became hysterical under cross-examination.

Use this word when describing someone who is in a state of hurried, desperate activity, often due to fear or anxiety. It implies chaotic or rushed actions that may lack rational thought.

• He made a frantic search for his lost keys.
• The crowd was frantic as they tried to escape the building.

This word is appropriate for describing someone who is very upset and troubled, often due to a recent traumatic experience. It captures a deep level of distress and emotional pain.

• She was distraught after hearing the bad news.
• The mother was distraught when her child went missing.

Often used to describe a person who is extremely emotional or exhausted due to stress. It can also describe something that is overly complicated or overly detailed.

• She was so overwrought with anxiety about her exams that she couldn't sleep
• The novel's plot was overwrought and hard to follow

Used to describe something that is elaborately decorated, often with intricate designs and patterns.

• The cathedral's interior was ornate with gold leaf and detailed carvings
• Her house has an ornate fireplace that becomes a centerpiece during gatherings

Used to describe something that is extravagant and luxurious, often implying a generous or excessive amount of something.

• They threw a lavish party to celebrate their anniversary
• The hotel was known for its lavish decor and opulent rooms

Typically used to describe a person who is overly concerned with small, unimportant details, or something that has too many unnecessary details. It can imply a sense of irritation.

• He's so fussy about his food that it's hard to find a restaurant he likes
• The design of the dress was too fussy with all those bows and ribbons

Often used in a negative sense to describe something that is excessively done, to the point of being ineffective or overwhelming. It can refer to food that is cooked too long or generally to anything excessive.

• The steak was overdone and tough to eat
• The special effects in the movie were overdone and distractingly unrealistic