Search Dictionary
Definition of hypervigilant

hypervigilant

/ˌhaɪ.pɚˈvɪdʒ.əl.ənt/
hy · per · vig · i · lant
Adverb:hypervigilantly
JUMP TO:

hypervigilant Lexical Profile

hypervigilant Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by an abnormally heightened state of sensory sensitivity, watchfulness, and alertness to potential dangers or threats, often as a psychological response to trauma or severe anxiety.

Example

"Years of working in high-stress emergency rooms had left the paramedic hypervigilant even during quiet family gatherings."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hypervigilant
Antonyms
View all antonyms for hypervigilant

• Rhymes for hypervigilant

• Nearby Words

hyperthermia
hyperventilate
hyperventilation
hypervigilant
hyphen
hyphenate
hyphenated

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century from the Greek prefix 'hyper-' (meaning 'over' or 'excessive') and 'vigilant', which derives from the Latin 'vigilare' ('to keep awake' or 'to watch').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hypervigilant. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hypervigilant
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.