dysphoric

American  

[dis-fawr-ik, -for-] / dɪsˈfɔr ɪk, -ˈfɒr- /

adjective

1. relating to, experiencing, generating, or expressing a state or feeling of dissatisfaction, anxiety, or restlessness.

   The study addresses questions around the pathophysiology of depression, substance abuse, and other dysphoric clinical states.

   Sometimes I actually relish a film that's creepy, dysphoric, or even violent.

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Etymology

Origin of dysphoric

dysphor(ia) ( def. ) + -ic ( def. )

Explanation

Someone who feels dysphoric is unhappy and full of anxiety. If your friend spends most of his time sighing, moping, and crying, he's probably dysphoric — and you should probably see if he wants to talk. Euphoria is a state of extreme happiness, and dysphoria is the opposite: it’s a negative feeling, especially about life in general. When someone is full of dysphoria, they’re dysphoric: unhappy. Being dysphoric is a lot like being depressed. If you are familiar with the Winnie-the-Pooh stories by A. A. Milne, then you know Eeyore — a dysphoric donkey.

Example Sentences

“We both have this, like, dysphoric view of ourselves and what we can accomplish—and I think that’s part of the beautiful co-dependency of the friendship.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

At the same time, other people may use the pill to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder—severe irritability, depression, or anxiety in the weeks leading up to your period.

From National Geographic • Jul. 19, 2023

They hope their work will lead to a better understanding of conditions such as endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2023

“Having a child would be extremely dysphoric for me,” said Ladner Stroud, 31, in Washington state.

From Slate • Jul. 29, 2022

Strange visitors are at her door — PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and a prospective life partner who happens to be a divorced man with a daughter.

From Washington Post • Apr. 20, 2022