hypochondriac
hypochondriac Lexical Profile
hypochondriac Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person who is abnormally and chronically anxious about their health, often interpreting minor or normal bodily sensations as signs of serious physical illness.
"As a self-confessed hypochondriac, he immediately assumes the worst whenever he develops a mild headache or cough."
• adjective
Relating to, characteristic of, or suffering from hypochondria; abnormally anxious about one's health.
"The physician patiently reassured the patient that his hypochondriac fears were unfounded after all the diagnostic tests returned normal."
Relating to or situated in the hypochondrium (the upper lateral region of the abdomen just below the lowest ribs).
"During the physical examination, the doctor palpated the right hypochondriac region to check for tenderness over the liver."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse a 'hypochondriac' with a 'malingerer': a hypochondriac genuinely believes they are ill and experiences real anxiety over perceived symptoms, whereas a malingerer intentionally fabricates or exaggerates illness to avoid duty or gain an advantage.
• Rhymes for hypochondriac
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from French 'hypocondriaque' and Late Latin 'hypochondriacus', from Ancient Greek 'hypokhondrios' ('of the soft parts below the rib cartilage'), combining 'hypo-' ('under') and 'khondros' ('cartilage of the breastbone'), because ancient physicians believed the organs of the upper abdomen (the liver, spleen, and gall bladder) were the seat of melancholy and morbid anxiety.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.