hysterical

/hɪˈsterɪkəl/

Origin

From Latin hystericus, from Greek hysterikos "of the womb," from hystera "womb"

Meanings

1. Extremely or excessively emotional, especially in an uncontrolled or irrational way
2. Causing unrestrained laughter; very funny

Example Sentences

1. The crowd became hysterical when they saw their favorite celebrity.
2. Her hysterical reaction to the minor problem was completely out of proportion.
3. The comedian's routine was so hysterical that the audience couldn't stop laughing.

Related Words

• Forms: hysteria (noun), hysterically (adverb)
• Synonyms: frantic, frenzied, overwrought, hilarious, uproarious

Memorization Trick

Think "HIS-terical": Highly Irrational State, to remember its connection to extreme emotions or laughter.