Definition

Being extremely alert and aware of potential dangers or threats, often to an excessive degree.

Example

After the incident, she became hypervigilant, always looking over her shoulder.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I’ve been feeling really hypervigilant lately, like I can’t relax at all.

That sounds exhausting. What do you think is causing it?

I guess it's just the stress from work and everything going on.

Yeah, it's tough to switch off when you're in that state.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypervigilant → It is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "vigilant" (from Latin "vigilans", meaning awake or watchful). The word describes a state of being excessively watchful or alert.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'overly' ('hyper-') 'watchful' ('vigilant') — that's why hypervigilant means being extremely alert.

Visually Confused Words