Hypochondriac

usgb/ˌhaɪpəˈkɑːndriæk/
noun

A person who is excessively worried about their health and believes they are sick when they are not.

He's a hypochondriac, every time he sneezes, he thinks he has a deadly disease.
Visual representation of "hypochondriac" - A person who is excessively worried about their health and believes they are sick when they are not

Often appears as...

  • certified hypochondriac
  • self-diagnosing hypochondriac

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "hypochondriac"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Excessive Worry

Focus on the 'excessive' aspect, which highlights irrational or unnecessary concern for health.

Illustration for Excessive Worry
Even a minor headache makes him run to the doctor; such a hypochondriac.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Perceived Illness

Understand that a hypochondriac believes they are sick, even when medically healthy.

Illustration for Perceived Illness
I told her it's just a cold, but she's convinced it's more serious — typical hypochondriac behavior.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not an Insult

Be careful using 'hypochondriac'; it can offend if someone actually feels ill.

Illustration for Not an Insult
Calling him a hypochondriac wasn't nice; he was genuinely feeling unwell.
Visual representation of the word "Hypochondriac"

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