Hyper
/ˈhaɪpər/
Definitions
2 meaningsCharacterized by a state of extreme excitement or activity.
/ˈhaɪpər/
Excessively excited, enthusiastic, or energetic
The kids were hyper after the party.
💡 Simply: When someone is so excited and full of energy that they're almost bouncing off the walls, we say they're hyper. Like, you know when you've had too much sugar?
👶 For kids: When you're really, really excited and jumpy, like when you get a new toy!
More Examples
She became hyper after drinking a caffeinated beverage.
He was a hyper little guy, always running around.
How It's Used
"He was hyper after winning the game."
"The child showed signs of hyper behavior."
A prefix meaning 'above,' 'over,' or 'excessive,' used to form words that describe a state of excess or high activity.
/ˈhaɪpər/
Indicating an excessive degree or amount
The doctor diagnosed him with hyperthyroidism.
💡 Simply: The word 'hyper' sometimes goes at the beginning of a word to say something is 'extra' or 'too much.' Like in 'hyperactive' - that's when someone is extra active!
👶 For kids: It means MORE! Like if you have hyper-energy, you have a lot of energy.
More Examples
Hyperactivity is often a symptom of ADHD.
The hyper- prefix indicates excess.
How It's Used
"The prefix 'hyper-' is used in words like 'hyperactive'."
"Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid."
Idioms & expressions
hyper-aware
Extremely conscious or perceptive of something.
"The security system was hyper-aware of any potential threats."
hyperlink
A reference to another document or resource on the internet, often in the form of a clickable word or image.
"Click on the hyperlink to visit the website."
From Greek *hyper-* (ὑπέρ), meaning 'over,' 'above,' 'beyond,' or 'excessive.' It's used as a prefix to form words indicating an extreme or excessive degree.
The prefix 'hyper-' has ancient roots in Greek and has been used in English since the 19th century, but the modern usage of the word 'hyper' as a standalone adjective is more recent.
Memory tip
Imagine a person jumping with extreme energy - they are 'hyper'.
Word Origin
"over, above, beyond, excessive"