definitions

hyper-

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).

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Nearby words

hypatia, hype, hyped up, hyped-up, hyper, hyper-, hyperaccumulator, hyperacidity, hyperaction, hyperactive, hyperactivity
Compare super-.

Origin of hyper-

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

Can be confused

hyper- hypo-
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for hyper-

hyper-

prefix

above, over, or in excesshypercritical
(in medicine) denoting an abnormal excesshyperacidity
indicating that a chemical compound contains a greater than usual amount of an elementhyperoxide

Word Origin for hyper-

from Greek huper over
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Medicine definitions for hyper-

hyper-

pref.

Over; above; beyond:hyperflexion.
Excessive; excessively:hyperhydration.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for hyper-

hyper-

A prefix that means “excessive” or “excessively,” especially in medical terms like hypertension and hyperthyroidism.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.