hyper

¹

[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-

²

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

³

[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-

¹

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

²

/ ˈhaɪpə /

adjective

1. informal,  overactive; overexcited

hyper–

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyper–¹

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

Origin of hyper–²

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

Origin of hyper–³

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyper–¹

from Greek huper over

Origin of hyper–²

C20: probably independent use of _hyper-

Example Sentences

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

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"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."

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"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.

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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".

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

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Related Words

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