hyperactivity

noun

hy·​per·​ac·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌhī-pər-ˌak-ˈti-və-tē How to pronounce hyperactivity (audio)
1
: the state or condition of being overly active
Canada geese are disarmingly expressive. … They disdain the frantic hyperactivity of smaller birds.Benjamin B. Bachman
2
: increased levels of function or activity especially when considered abnormally excessive
She had developed delusions of invincibility, along with bouts of hyperactivity and severe insomnia.Per Ola and Emily D'Aulaire
especially : higher than usual levels of movement and activity (such as excessive talking or fidgeting) typically associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
An estimated 1 in 50 school-age children in the United States, receive stimulant medication to help quell inattentiveness and hyperactivity. Christine Mlot

Examples of hyperactivity in a Sentence

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.
Wakeman's son has autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 July 2025 He was prescribed various medications to treat his alcohol use and his attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, investigators wrote. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 16 June 2025 For example, as data reveals emerging trends, such as an increase in college students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, training can be provided to clinicians in treating students with these concerns. Jeffrey A. Hayes, The Conversation, 12 June 2025 Since some studies have suggested a link between low magnesium levels and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), those with ADHD may consider taking magnesium. Lindsay Cook, Verywell Health, 28 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hyperactivity

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hyperactivity was in 1888

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Cite this Entry

“Hyperactivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hyperactivity. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

hyperactivity

noun
hy·​per·​ac·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌhī-pə-ˌrak-ˈtiv-ət-ē How to pronounce hyperactivity (audio)
plural hyperactivities
: a state or condition of being excessively or pathologically active

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