hypersensitive etymology

Etymology:

  • hyper- (from Greek): excessive, over
  • sensitive (from Latin): able to feel or perceive

Meaning:

Excessively sensitive or responsive to external stimuli, either physical or emotional.

Origin:

The term "hypersensitive" was first coined in the mid-19th century to describe a heightened sensitivity to physical stimuli, such as touch, temperature, and noise. Later, it was also applied to describe an exaggerated emotional response to external events or situations.

The term is widely used in psychology and medicine to describe a range of conditions characterized by an oversensitivity to certain stimuli. For example:

  • Hypersensitivity to touch: A condition known as tactile hypersensitivity, where individuals experience excessive discomfort or pain in response to gentle touch.
  • Hypersensitivity to sound: A condition known as hyperacusis, where individuals experience excessive loudness or pain in response to sounds.
  • Emotional hypersensitivity: A trait associated with increased emotional reactivity and vulnerability to stress or negative events.

Hypersensitivity can vary in severity and may be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predispositions, neurological conditions, or psychological factors. It is important to note that not all sensitivity is considered hypersensitivity. Some individuals may simply have a heightened awareness of certain stimuli, which is not necessarily considered pathological.

hypersensitive relate terms

  • sensitive

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  • sense

    Etymology Middle English sens from Old French sens from Latin sensus sensation perc

  • hyper

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  • week

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  • insinuate

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  • apprehensive

    Etymology Late Middle English from Latin apprehendere past participle apprehensus

  • customer

    Etymology The word customer originates from Old French costumer meaning one who buy

  • preposterous

    Etymology The word preposterous comes from the Latin phrase prae posterus meaning i

  • comprehend

    Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It involves tracing

  • John

    Etymology Hebrew יוחנן Yōḥānān Meaning God is gracious or Yahweh i

  • moot

    Etymology The word moot derives from the Middle English term mōt which originated f