hyperextension

American  

[hahy-per-ik-sten-shuhn] / ˌhaɪ pər ɪkˈstɛn ʃən /

noun

1. the extension of a part of the body beyond normal limits.

---

hyperextension British  

/ ˌhaɪpərɪkˈstɛnʃən /

noun

1. extension of an arm or leg beyond its normal limits

---

Etymology

Origin of hyperextension

First recorded in 1880–85; hyper- + extension

Example Sentences

Despite his insistence that he was healthy fairly soon after he suffered a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise March 15, Antetokounmpo didn’t play in the last 15 games of the season.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

Schmetzer described the issue as a bone injury, but it’s officially categorized as right knee hyperextension.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 19, 2024

Stevens said Derrick White’s knee injury in Game 7 was just a hyperextension and sprain.

From Washington Times • Jun. 1, 2023

Pelicans: Larry Nance Jr. returned from a left knee hyperextension.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 10, 2022

Congenital dislocations of the shoulder are also seen, owing to faulty development of the glenoid fossa; and at the knee, the leg generally being in extreme hyperextension, the foot sometimes resting on the abdomen.

From Anomalies and Curiosities of Medicine by Pyle, Walter L. (Walter Lytle)