Definition

A mental condition where a person feels extreme and unreasonable distrust or suspicion of others, often believing that they are being harmed or persecuted.

Example

His paranoia made it difficult for him to trust anyone around him.

Conversation

Have you ever felt that strange sense of paranoia when you're alone at night?

Yeah, sometimes I think I hear noises that aren't really there.

Exactly! It's like my mind plays tricks on me and creates that paranoia.

Right? It can be so unsettling, especially when you start imagining the worst.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paranoia is derived from the Greek "para-" (meaning beside or beyond) and "noia" (from "noein", meaning to think or perceive). The term originally referred to a condition of the mind that is characterized by irrational thoughts or perceptions that are beyond normal thinking.

Memory Tip

Think of 'thinking beyond' ('para-') what is normal ('noia') — that's why paranoia refers to irrational thoughts or perceptions.

Visually Confused Words