hysteric
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /hɪˈstɛrɪk/
KK: /hɪˈstɛrɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or characterized by extreme emotional reactions, often involving uncontrollable laughter or crying.
Example
She became hysteric when she heard the surprising news.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more hysteric
Superlative: most hysteric
Conversation
Did you see that video of the cat on the roller skates?
Yes! It was absolutely hysteric to watch!
I couldn't stop laughing at how it kept falling over.
Right? It just made everything feel so much lighter!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
frantic
wild
uncontrolled
Antonyms
calm
composed
sane
noun
Definition
A person who experiences extreme emotional reactions, often characterized by uncontrollable laughter or crying.
Example
During the movie, she became a hysteric, laughing loudly and unable to stop.
Conversation
I saw that video of the hysteric crowd at the concert last night.
Oh wow, I can only imagine how crazy it was!
Yeah, it looked like everyone was having a fit of laughter or something.
Root Explanation
Hysteric → It is derived from the Greek word "hystera" (meaning uterus) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The term originally referred to a condition thought to be related to the uterus, hence describing a state of emotional excess or uncontrollable behavior.
Memory Tip
Think of the Greek word for uterus ('hystera') to remember that 'hysteric' relates to emotional states that can feel overwhelming or excessive.
Visually Confused Words
steric
unhysterical
sterics
stearic
shyster
perihysteric
heteric
antihysteric