Definition

Describing someone who is excessively worried about their health and often believes they are ill, even when they are not.

Example

She tends to be a hypochondriac, always fearing she has a serious illness.

Conversation

I've been feeling a bit off lately, like I might be catching something.

Really? You always think you're sick; you're such a hypochondriac sometimes.

I know, but this time it feels different, like a real concern.

Maybe just relax and see how you feel in a day or two.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who is excessively worried about their health and often believes they are sick, even when there is no real medical issue.

Example

Despite being perfectly healthy, she often acts like a hypochondriac, constantly fearing she has serious illnesses.

Conversation

Have you noticed how Jake always thinks he's sick?

Yeah, I guess he's a bit of a hypochondriac sometimes.

It's funny, but it also makes me worry about him.

Root Explanation

Hypochondriac → It is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or below) and "chondros" (meaning cartilage or rib). The term originally referred to the area beneath the ribs, which was thought to be the seat of various ailments, leading to the modern meaning of someone excessively worried about their health.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hypo-' meaning 'under' and 'chondros' referring to 'ribs' — this helps you remember that a hypochondriac is someone who is overly concerned about their health, often imagining illnesses.

Visually Confused Words