paranoia
Paranoia (noun) means a mental health condition marked by persistent, irrational feelings of persecution or threat. Example: “His doctor prescribed medication to help manage his paranoia.”
How to use paranoia
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA state of feeling like everyone is out to get you, whether as a clinical condition or just an exaggerated mood.
Word forms
paranoias plural, paranoiæ plural
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His doctor prescribed medication to help manage his _____.
Etymology
Borrowed from Ancient Greek paranoia, "madness," from para- ("beside, beyond") + nous ("mind") — literally, a mind that has gone "beside itself."
Rhymes for paranoia
See all rhymes for paranoia →Frequently asked questions
What does “paranoia” mean?
The word “paranoia” means a mental health condition marked by persistent, irrational feelings of persecution or threat. In plain terms, a state of feeling like everyone is out to get you, whether as a clinical condition or just an exaggerated mood.
How do you pronounce “paranoia”?
“Paranoia” is pronounced par-uh-NOY-uh (/ˌpæɹ.əˈnɔɪ.ə/ in IPA).
How do you use “paranoia” in a sentence?
Here is “paranoia” used in a sentence: “His doctor prescribed medication to help manage his paranoia.”
What part of speech is “paranoia”?
“Paranoia” is a noun.
Where does the word “paranoia” come from?
The word “paranoia” comes from Ancient Greek. Borrowed from Ancient Greek paranoia, "madness," from para- ("beside, beyond") + nous ("mind") — literally, a mind that has gone "beside itself.".
Is “paranoia” a common word?
“Paranoia” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “paranoia” have?
“Paranoia” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mental health condition marked by persistent, irrational feelings of persecution or threat.