hectic
1 synonym and 1 antonym for hectic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Extremely busy, rushed, and full of activity, often to a stressful degree.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use hectic
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a hectic schedule
hectic pace
life got hectic
Etymology
Originally a medical term for a wasting fever that caused flushed cheeks, from Greek hektikos, "habitual" or "consumptive." Its modern sense of "frantically busy" developed much later, by association with the feverish, agitated feeling such an illness produced.
Full origin of hectic →Frequently asked questions
What does “hectic” mean?
The word “hectic” means extremely busy, rushed, and full of activity, often to a stressful degree. In plain terms, so busy and full of activity that it feels chaotic or exhausting.
How do you pronounce “hectic”?
“Hectic” is pronounced HEHK-tihk (/ˈhɛktɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “hectic” in a sentence?
Here is “hectic” used in a sentence: “Mornings in our house are hectic — three kids, two dogs, and one bathroom.”
What part of speech is “hectic”?
“Hectic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “hectic” come from?
The word “hectic” comes from Greek.
Is “hectic” a common word?
“Hectic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
