Hysterically

/hɪˈstɛrɪkli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
In a manner characterized by uncontrollable emotion, such as laughter or crying.
She laughed hysterically at the movie's funniest scenes.
In an exaggerated or overly emotional way.
He was talking hysterically about his plans, making it hard to take him seriously.
With extreme agitation, often due to panic or distress.
The child screamed hysterically when he couldn't find his mother.
In a frenzied or highly excited manner.
The crowd cheered hysterically when their team scored the winning goal.

Etymology

From hysteric + -ally, denoting manner or condition.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hysterically laughing:
Laughing in an uncontrolled and loud manner.
hysterically crying:
Crying uncontrollably, typically due to extreme emotion.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Over-the-top laughter or response.
That sketch was hysterically funny!
Used to describe something extremely funny or outrageous.
Her stories are hysterically exaggerated.