To be hypersensitive means to react more strongly to things than most people do. Someone who is hypersensitive might feel deeply hurt by a small criticism that others would brush off, or become very upset by a minor frustration. The prefix “hyper” means “excessive” or “too much,” so hypersensitivity is sensitivity turned up too high.

You can be hypersensitive emotionally, reacting intensely to things people say or do. A hypersensitive student might interpret a teacher's neutral comment as harsh criticism, or feel devastated when a friend forgets to save them a seat at lunch.

You can also be hypersensitive physically. Someone with hypersensitive skin might find that scratchy fabrics most people can wear feel unbearable. Others might be hypersensitive to sounds, finding a ticking clock or distant traffic noise intensely distracting while classmates barely notice.

Being sensitive means you notice and care about things, which can be valuable. Being hypersensitive, however, means reacting so strongly that small problems feel like major crises. If someone tells you you're being hypersensitive about something, they're suggesting you're taking it more seriously or personally than they think you should.