Definition

In a way that exaggerates or overstates something, often for emphasis or effect.

Example

She described the situation hyperbolically, making it sound much worse than it really was.

Conversation

Did you hear her describe the party as the best ever, hyperbolically speaking?

Yeah, I noticed that too! It's funny how people exaggerate sometimes.

Right? It's hard to take it seriously when they go hyperbolically overboard.

Exactly! But it does make for entertaining stories.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hyperbolically → It is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or beyond) and "bole" (from Greek "ballein", meaning to throw). The suffix "-ically" indicates a manner or way. Thus, hyperbolically refers to a manner of exaggeration that goes beyond the literal truth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over' ('hyper-') and 'throwing' ('bole') something to remember that hyperbolically means expressing something in an exaggerated way.

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