Hyper-sensitive describes an individual or system exhibiting an unusually heightened or excessive sensitivity to stimuli, whether physical, emotional, or environmental. This amplified responsiveness often leads to a disproportionate reaction or response compared to what would typically be expected. The individual or system may experience discomfort, distress, or heightened awareness of sensations, emotions, or external factors that others may perceive as mild or negligible. Factors such as stress, trauma, or genetic predispositions can contribute to hyper-sensitivity.
Hyper-sensitive meaning with examples
- After the loud argument, Maria found herself hyper-sensitive to even the smallest sounds, a ticking clock seemed amplified, each creak of the floorboards triggered anxiety. The experience left her feeling fragile and easily startled. She avoided social situations, as even a gentle conversation caused overstimulation.
- The plant, after being neglected and exposed to harsh weather, became hyper-sensitive. The slightest change in light or temperature caused it to wilt. The gardener had to take extra care to bring the plant back to a healthy, stable state. Even indirect sunlight felt harsh to its overstimulated systems.
- Diagnosed with PTSD, John experiences hyper-sensitive reactions to certain smells; a faint scent of cologne triggering flashbacks of a traumatic event. This leads to extreme anxiety and panic. Therapy is needed for John's heightened sensitivity.
- The new software application proved hyper-sensitive to minor coding errors, causing frequent crashes. The developers quickly learned to carefully test and debug the application, as the system had a zero-tolerance policy for errors, much to their disappointment.