Definition

A condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as touch, sound, or light.

Example

The patient experienced hyperaesthesia, making even light touches feel painful.

Conversation

I heard about this condition called hyperaesthesia that makes your senses super sensitive.

Really? That sounds intense and kind of overwhelming.

Yeah, I can’t imagine what it must be like to experience that every day.

It must be tough — I think I would struggle with all that extra stimulation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hyperaesthesia is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "aesthesis" (from Greek "aisthesis", meaning sensation or perception). The word describes a condition characterized by an excessive sensitivity to sensory stimuli.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hyper-' meaning 'over' or 'excessive' and 'aesthesis' relating to 'sensation' — this helps you remember that hyperaesthesia refers to an excessive sensitivity to sensations.

Visually Confused Words