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Definition of hypercritical

hypercritical

/ˌhaɪpərˈkrɪtɪkəl/
hy · per · crit · i · cal
Adverb:hypercritically
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hypercritical Lexical Profile

hypercritical Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Excessively or unreasonably severely critical, especially of small or trivial faults.

Example

"The director's hypercritical remarks about every minor rehearsal mistake demoralized the entire cast."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hypercritical
Antonyms
View all antonyms for hypercritical

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'hypercritical' (excessively or unreasonably fault-finding) with 'hypocritical' (behaving in a way that contradicts one's stated moral beliefs).

• Rhymes for hypercritical

• Nearby Words

hypercharged
hyperconnected
hyperconscious
hypercritical
hyperdeveloped
hyperdrive
hyperefficient

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century from the Greek prefix 'hyper-' (meaning 'over' or 'beyond') combined with 'critical', ultimately tracing back to the Greek 'kritikos' (able to discern or judge).

Cite this Entry

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