hyperbole
heye-PUR-buh-lee
Hyperbole (noun) means Exaggeration used for effect, not meant to be taken literally. Example: “I've told you a million times" is hyperbole, not a literal count.”
noun
1
Exaggeration used for effect, not meant to be taken literally.
""I've told you a million times" is hyperbole, not a literal count."
"The ad's claim of "the best pizza in the universe" was pure hyperbole."
How to use hyperbole
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDeliberate over-the-top exaggeration used to make a point or for comic effect.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "hyperbola," the geometric curve — same root, very different meaning.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
pure hyperbole
without hyperbole
marketing hyperbole
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Word forms
- Plural
- hyperboles
Fill the gap
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"I've told you a million times" is _____, not a literal count.
Etymology
From Greek hyperbolē ("excess, exaggeration"), literally "a throwing beyond" — from hyper- ("above") + ballein ("to throw"). A doublet of "hyperbola," the math curve.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for hyperbole
See all rhymes for hyperbole →Frequently asked questions
What does “hyperbole” mean?
The word “hyperbole” means exaggeration used for effect, not meant to be taken literally. In plain terms, deliberate over-the-top exaggeration used to make a point or for comic effect.
How do you pronounce “hyperbole”?
“Hyperbole” is pronounced heye-PUR-buh-lee (/haɪˈpɝbəli/ in IPA).
How do you use “hyperbole” in a sentence?
Here is “hyperbole” used in a sentence: “"I've told you a million times" is hyperbole, not a literal count.”
What part of speech is “hyperbole”?
“Hyperbole” is a noun.
Where does the word “hyperbole” come from?
The word “hyperbole” comes from Greek. From Greek hyperbolē ("excess, exaggeration"), literally "a throwing beyond" — from hyper- ("above") + ballein ("to throw"). A doublet of "hyperbola," the math curve.
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