Main Entry: hec·tic

Pronunciation: \ˈhek-tik\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English etyk, from Anglo-French etique, from Late Latin hecticus, from Greek hektikos habitual, consumptive, from echein to have — more at scheme

Date: 14th century

1 : of, relating to, or being a fluctuating but persistent fever (as in tuberculosis)
2 : having a hectic fever
3 : red, flushed
4 : characterized by activity, excitement, or confusion <the hectic days before the holidays>

— hec·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb