hyper

¹

[hahy-per]

adjective

1. overexcited; overstimulated; keyed up.

2. seriously or obsessively concerned; fanatical; rabid.

   She's hyper about noise pollution.

3. hyperactive.

noun

1. a person who is hyper.

hyper

²

[hahy-per]

noun

Informal.

1. a person who promotes or publicizes events, people, etc., especially one who uses flamboyant or questionable methods; promoter; publicist.

hyper-

³

1. a prefix appearing in loanwords from Greek, where it meant “over,” usually implying excess or exaggeration (hyperbole ); on this model used, especially as opposed to hypo-, in the formation of compound words (hyperthyroid ).

hyper

¹

/ ˈhaɪpə /

adjective

1. informal,  overactive; overexcited

hyper-

²

prefix

1. above, over, or in excess

   hypercritical

2. (in medicine) denoting an abnormal excess

   hyperacidity

3. indicating that a chemical compound contains a greater than usual amount of an element

   hyperoxide

hyper–

1. A prefix that means “excessive” or “excessively,” especially in medical terms like hypertension and hyperthyroidism.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyper¹

First recorded in 1970–75; probably independent use of hyper-

Origin of hyper²

1910–15, for an earlier sense; hype ¹ + -er ¹

Origin of hyper³

Greek, representing hypér over, above; cognate with Latin super ( super- ); akin to over

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyper¹

C20: probably independent use of _hyper-

Origin of hyper²

from Greek huper over

Example Sentences

Side effects are rare, but some children get a little more hyper or have more repetitive behaviors.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

"There is a buoyant car culture in London - a street culture, a classic culture, a super car, hyper car culture, it's all there... I just think the concept of the automotive is considered dirty."

Read more on BBC

"He isn't hyper and too excitable or in your face, but he's one of those guys who oozes confidence without trying," Coldwell said.

Read more on BBC

Speaking to BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster programme, Mc McGrath said his son's mood could change greatly from "hyper" to "very emotional".

Read more on BBC

Mr Boelter was wearing a "hyper realistic silicon mask" when he rang the doorbell and shouted "this is the police, open the door".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• aggressive 
• alive 
• bold 
• busy 
• determined 
• diligent 
• dynamic 
• eager 
• energetic 
• engaged 
• enthusiastic 
• forceful 
• intense 
• keen 
• lively 
• quick 
• ready 
• resolute