English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word hysteria in English

What does hysteria mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hysteria

US /hɪˈstɪr.i.ə/
UK /hɪˈstɪr.i.ə/
"hysteria" picture

Noun

1.

a state of uncontrolled emotion, such as fear or excitement, that is often experienced by a group of people

Example:
•
The crowd erupted in mass hysteria after the announcement.
•
There was widespread hysteria when the news of the disaster broke.
Synonym:
frenzydeliriummaniapanicagitation
2.

an outdated medical diagnosis for a mental disorder, primarily in women, characterized by emotional excitability, anxiety, and sensory disturbances

Example:
•
In the past, doctors often diagnosed women with hysteria for various emotional symptoms.
•
The concept of female hysteria is now largely discredited in modern medicine.
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