hypersensitive

adjective

hy·​per·​sen·​si·​tive ˌhī-pər-ˈsen(t)-s(ə-)tiv How to pronounce hypersensitive (audio)
1
: excessively or abnormally sensitive
2
: abnormally susceptible physiologically to a specific agent (such as a drug or antigen)
hypersensitiveness noun

Examples of hypersensitive in a Sentence

She's hypersensitive about her past. People who are hypersensitive to the chemical may have violent reactions even to small amounts.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sensitivity to cold: After frostbite, the affected areas may become hypersensitive to cold, making future cold exposure more uncomfortable. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 1 Nov. 2024 But this steady diet of praise has made the generals hypersensitive to criticism. Jeff Martini, Foreign Affairs, 1 Sep. 2011 Allergic reactions occur when a person's immune system is hypersensitive to a substance (allergen). Daniel More, Health, 24 Oct. 2024 Those whose vestibular system is hypersensitive may feel off-balance or in danger of falling. Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hypersensitive 

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypersensitive was in 1871

Dictionary Entries Near hypersensitive

Cite this Entry

“Hypersensitive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypersensitive. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

hypersensitive

adjective
hy·​per·​sen·​si·​tive ˌhī-pər-ˈsen(t)-sət-iv How to pronounce hypersensitive (audio)
-ˈsen(t)-stiv
: very sensitive especially to an abnormal degree
hypersensitiveness noun

Medical Definition

hypersensitive

adjective
hy·​per·​sen·​si·​tive ˌhī-pər-ˈsen(t)-sət-iv, -ˈsen(t)-stiv How to pronounce hypersensitive (audio)
1
: excessively or abnormally sensitive
2
: abnormally susceptible physiologically to a specific agent (as a drug or antigen)
hypersensitiveness noun
hypersensitivity noun
plural hypersensitivities

More from Merriam-Webster on hypersensitive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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