Definition

Being extremely aware of your surroundings and ready to react, often due to stress or anxiety.

Example

After the accident, she felt hyperalert and couldn't relax for days.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling so hyperalert lately, even at night.

Really? That sounds exhausting!

Yeah, it's like my mind won't let me relax.

I get that; sometimes talking helps to ease that tension.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hyperalert → It is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "alert" (from Latin "alertus", meaning to be on the watch or attentive). The word "hyperalert" describes a state of being excessively attentive or watchful.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'overly' ('hyper-') 'attentive' ('alert') — that's what hyperalert means.

Visually Confused Words