Hypochondria

usgb/ˌhaɪpəˈkɑːndriə/
noun

A psychological disorder where a person thinks they are ill, but they are not really sick.

John is always going to the doctor; we think he may have hypochondria.
Visual representation of "hypochondria" - A psychological disorder where a person thinks they are ill, but they are not really sick.

Often appears as...

  • suffer from hypochondria
  • diagnosed with hypochondria

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hypochondria"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Psychological Origin

Understand that 'hypochondria' is about a person's beliefs, not actual symptoms.

Illustration for Psychological Origin
Despite feeling healthy, Emma's hypochondria made her worry about heart disease.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Amused

'Hypochondria' is sensitive; don't use it to make fun of someone's concerns.

Illustration for Not Amused
When Mike mentioned his hypochondria, his friends nodded sympathetically.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Medical Context

Use 'hypochondria' primarily in discussions about health or psychological conditions.

Illustration for Medical Context
The doctor reassured her that her symptoms were just hypochondria.
Visual representation of the word "Hypochondria"

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