hyper-

The prefix hyper- has three meanings.

Meaning 1: above, beyond

  • Hypersonic speed is at least five times greater than the speed of sound, or about 3800 mph.

Meaning 2: excessive

  • Hyperglycemia is a condition in which there is an excessive amount of sugar in the blood.

Meaning 3: excessively (before an adjective)

  • Our boss is so hypercritical that he finds fault with everything we do.

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