hypervigilant
1
8.6
- adjective
- /ˌhaɪpərˈvɪdʒɪlənt/
- Specialized
:
hipervigilante
- After experiencing trauma, she became hypervigilant in public places, constantly scanning for potential threats.
- become hypervigilant
Examples
-
I so badly wanted to get it "right," but my attempts made me feel hypervigilant and unrelaxed.
Blog text (21) -
The soldiers developed hypervigilant behavior, always alert to any signs of danger during their deployment.
-
These analysts expect military personnel to be hypervigilant to threats.
Academic text (2000) -
For example, traumatized children are often hypervigilant of their environment as a protective mechanism against additional traumatic events.
Academic text (2006) -
A hypervigilant lawyer may make sure every brief is letter-perfect and all deadlines are met, but at home, his or her children may be miserable if expected to bring home perfect grades and attend Ivy League schools.
Academic text (1994) -
One graduate of the facility in Riyadh told me privately that although he was taking psychotropic medications, which helped, he was still suffering from terrible nightmares and feeling hypervigilant.
Academic text (2010) -
Many survivors of accidents report feeling hypervigilant in similar situations, as they remain alert to prevent further harm.
Synonyms
110
3.6
Careful because you do not trust someone or something
66
6.0
A person who keeps careful watch for danger or problems
37
3.2
Being careful and ready to notice danger or problems
27
3.5
Alert and ready to act if danger or problems appear
6
4.4
Ready and alert to notice danger or problems
1
5.2
Aware of possible danger or change
1
5.3
Being alert and watching for danger
Being very aware of yourself or your surroundings
Watchful and careful to notice danger or mistakes
Alert and ready to deal with danger or problems
Ready and careful about possible danger or problems
Antonyms
How Alert
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Hypervigilant begins with hyper- meaning 'too much', as in hyperactive, and comes from vigil meaning 'watch' or 'awake'. So to be hypervigilant is to be 'too watchful', very alert because of fear or stress.