Definition

A condition in which a person is excessively worried about having a serious illness, despite having little or no medical evidence to support this belief.

Example

Her hypochondriasis made her visit the doctor frequently, even for minor symptoms.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hypochondriasis?

Yeah, isn't that when someone constantly worries about being sick?

Exactly! I think my friend might have hypochondriasis because she always thinks she has some rare disease.

That sounds tough; it must be really stressful for her.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypochondriasis is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or below) and "chondros" (meaning cartilage, often referring to the ribs). The term originally described a condition thought to be related to the area beneath the ribs, where the spleen and liver were believed to be located, and it refers to excessive worry about one's health.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hypo-' meaning 'under' and 'chondros' relating to 'cartilage' or the area beneath the ribs, which helps you remember that hypochondriasis involves an excessive concern about health.

Visually Confused Words