hysteria
Hysteria (noun) means a state of extreme, uncontrollable emotion, ranging from panic to wild excitement. Example: “News of the surprise winner sent the crowd into hysteria.”
How to use hysteria
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA wave of extreme, often irrational emotion or panic.
The word's origin (linking emotion to the womb) is outdated and considered sexist; modern usage just means extreme collective emotion.
Word forms
hysterias plural, hysteriae plural, hysteriæ plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
News of the surprise winner sent the crowd into _____.
Etymology
From Latin hystericus, from Greek hysterikos ("suffering in the womb") — from hystera ("womb"). Ancient physicians wrongly attributed this emotional state to the uterus.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for hysteria
See all rhymes for hysteria →Frequently asked questions
What does “hysteria” mean?
The word “hysteria” means a state of extreme, uncontrollable emotion, ranging from panic to wild excitement. In plain terms, a wave of extreme, often irrational emotion or panic.
How do you pronounce “hysteria”?
“Hysteria” is pronounced hih-STEH-ree-uh (/hɪˈstɛɹiə/ in IPA).
How do you use “hysteria” in a sentence?
Here is “hysteria” used in a sentence: “News of the surprise winner sent the crowd into hysteria.”
What part of speech is “hysteria”?
“Hysteria” is a noun.
Where does the word “hysteria” come from?
The word “hysteria” comes from Latin. From Latin hystericus, from Greek hysterikos ("suffering in the womb") — from hystera ("womb"). Ancient physicians wrongly attributed this emotional state to the uterus.
Is “hysteria” a common word?
“Hysteria” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.