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Definition of hectic

hectic

/ˈhɛk.tɪk/
hec · tic
Adverb:hectically
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hectic Lexical Profile

hectic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Full of incessant, frantic, or confused activity and excitement.

Example

"After a hectic week of final exams and project deadlines, the students looked forward to a quiet weekend."

2

Relating to or characterized by a fluctuating fever and flushed cheeks, historically associated with wasting diseases such as tuberculosis.

Example

"Two bright, hectic spots of color burned on the patient's pale cheeks as the evening fever took hold."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for hectic

• Nearby Words

heckler
heckuva
hectare
hectic
hectically
hectogram
hectoliter

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed via Late Middle English and Old French from Late Latin 'hecticus', from Ancient Greek 'hektikos' (habitual), derived from 'hexis' (habit or physical constitution). Originally a medical term describing a recurring fever associated with tuberculosis, its modern sense of 'frantically busy' emerged in the early 20th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hectic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hectic
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