Hyperesthesia
/ˌhaɪpərɛsˈθiːʒə/noun
Abnormally increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as touch, pain, light, or sound.
Did you know?The Greek root aisthēsis originally meant perception or sensation, and later gave English aesthetics—the study of sensory appreciation and beauty.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*uper
“Over, above, or beyond; the ancient root behind Greek hyper and English over.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
hyper-
“Over, beyond, or excessively; a prefix indicating excess or abnormal degree.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
aisthanesthai
“To perceive, feel, or become aware through the senses.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
aisthēsis
“Sensation, perception, or sensory awareness.”
19th Century
Medical Latin/Greek
hyperaesthesia
“A technical medical formation meaning heightened or excessive sensation.”
Modern English
English
hyperesthesia
“Abnormally increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli.”