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Hysterical - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Hysterical describes extreme, uncontrollable emotion, often laughter or panic. It can also refer to something wildly funny. The term implies an exaggerated or irrational reaction beyond normal behavior.

hysterical

/hɪˈstɛrɪkəl/ /hɪˈstɛrɪkəl/

Definition:

Overcome with uncontrollable emotion, often laughter or fear, to an exaggerated degree.

Synonyms:

frantic, frenzied, uncontrollable, wild

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

calm, composed

Common Collocations:

hysterical laughter, hysterical crying, hysterical reaction

Derivatives:

hysteria, hysterically

Usage Tips:

Use "hysterical" to describe extreme emotional reactions, often exaggerated or irrational in nature.

Common Phrases:

laughing hysterically, hysterical fit, hysterical outburst

Etymology:

Derived from Greek "hysterikos," relating to the womb (historically linked to female emotional instability).

Examples:

  • 1. She burst into hysterical laughter at the joke.
  • 2. The crowd became hysterical when the celebrity appeared.
  • 3. His hysterical reaction scared everyone in the room.
  • 4. The movie was so funny it left us hysterical.

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