Langimage
English

hysterically

|hys-ter-i-cal-ly|

B2

/hɪˈstɛrɪkli/

(hysterical)

extreme emotion

Base FormAdverb
hystericalhysterically
Etymology
Etymology Information

'hysterically' originates from the Greek word 'hystera,' meaning 'womb,' reflecting the ancient belief that hysteria was caused by disturbances in the uterus.

Historical Evolution

'hystera' transformed into the Latin word 'hystericus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'hysterical' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a medical condition thought to be specific to women, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'uncontrollably emotional.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is uncontrollably emotional or irrational.

She laughed hysterically at the joke.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/06/25 06:40