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Definition of hyperbole

hyperbole

/haɪˈpɜːr.bə.li/
hy · per · bo · le
Adverb:hyperbolically
•
Plural:hyperboles
•
Adjective:hyperbolic
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hyperbole Lexical Profile

hyperbole Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Extravagant and intentional exaggeration used as a rhetorical or literary figure of speech for emphasis or comic effect, not meant to be taken literally.

Example

"When the reviewer claimed that the novel was the greatest achievement in human history, everyone recognized the statement as pure hyperbole."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hyperbole
Antonyms
View all antonyms for hyperbole

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'hyperbole' (extravagant exaggeration, pronounced hy-PER-buh-lee) with 'hyperbola' (a symmetrical open curve in geometry).

• Rhymes for hyperbole

• Nearby Words

hyperalert
hyperaware
hyperawareness
hyperbole
hyperbolic
hyperbolize
hypercharged

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed via Latin from Ancient Greek 'hyperbole' (excess, exaggeration, or throwing beyond), from 'hyper-' (beyond) and 'ballein' (to throw).

Cite this Entry

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