hyper-

¹ American  

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 ).

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hyper ² American  

[hahy-per] / ˈhaɪ pər /

noun

Informal.

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

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hyper ³ American  

[hahy-per] / ˈhaɪ pər /

adjective

1. overexcited; overstimulated; keyed up.

2. seriously or obsessively concerned; fanatical; rabid.

   She's hyper about noise pollution.

3. hyperactive.

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noun

1. a person who is hyper.

hyper- ¹ British  

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

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hyper ² British  

/ ˈhaɪpə /

adjective

1. informal overactive; overexcited

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hyper– Scientific  

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

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Etymology

Origin of hyper-¹

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

Origin of hyper¹

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

Origin of hyper¹

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

Example Sentences

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

From The 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."

From 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.

From 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".

From BBC

Arguing that performers, like everyone else, are a product of their times, Shergill says these impulses are "a response to the hyper capitalist world".

From BBC

Related Words

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