Hysteria - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Hysteria refers to a state of extreme emotional excitement or fear, often leading to uncontrollable behavior. It can also describe exaggerated or uncontrollable reactions by a group.
Definition:
Exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion, often involving panic or irrational behavior.
Synonyms:
frenzy, panic, mania, delirium
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
calmness, composure
Common Collocations:
mass hysteria, hysterical laughter, hysterical outburst
Derivatives:
hysteric, hysterical
Usage Tips:
Use "hysteria" to describe extreme emotional reactions, often collective or irrational in nature.
Common Phrases:
whipped into a hysteria, hysteria sets in, media-induced hysteria
Etymology:
From Greek "hystera" (womb), historically linked to women's emotional instability.
Examples:
- 1. The news caused widespread hysteria among the crowd.
- 2. Her laughter turned into uncontrollable hysteria during the comedy show.
- 3. The rumor sparked mass hysteria in the small town.
- 4. He dismissed their fears as mere hysteria.