Synonyms for

Hysterical

Verb / hɪˈsterɪkʌl / Another word for hysterical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Hysterical means to be in a state of extreme emotion, often leading to uncontrolled laughter or crying.

Synonyms & similar words

hysteric frantic emotional wrought-up agitated manic overwrought excited frenzied uncontrollable unrestrained uncontrolled wild uproarious hilarious side-splitting rib-tickling

Synonyms by register

Formal

uncontrolled manic overwrought frantic

Informal

bonkers nuts crazy off-the-wall batty

Literary

frenzied frantic wild

Antonyms

calm composed rational sensible level-headed serene balanced

Common collocations

  • hysterical laughter
  • hysterical outburst
  • hysterical fit
  • hysterical reaction
  • hysterical blindness
  • hysterical state
  • hysterical woman

Word family

noun hysteria
adjective hysterical
adverb hysterically

Usage note

While 'hysterical' can describe extreme, uncontrollable emotion, it was historically used in a misogynistic way to describe women's emotional states. Use with care to avoid outdated or offensive connotations.

Example sentences

  1. The audience was hysterical with laughter at the comedian's jokes.
  2. She became hysterical when she heard the news of her friend's death.
  3. The children were hysterical with excitement when they saw the amusement park.
  4. The woman's hysterical crying could be heard from across the street.
  5. The movie was so hysterical that everyone in the theater was laughing uncontrollably.

Quotes

  • "I'm not crazy; I'm just a little unwell. I know right now you can't tell, but stay awhile and maybe then you'll see a different side of me." - Matchbox Twenty
  • "I'm not sure if I'm depressed. I mean, I'm not really sad. But I'm not really happy either. I can laugh and joke and smile during the day, but sometimes when I'm alone at night I forget how to feel." - Unknown
  • "I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person." - Audrey Hepburn

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