What does hyperbolical mean?
Hyperbolical describes language or statements that use deliberate or extreme exaggeration to create emphasis, drama, or comic effect. A claim may be called hyperbolical when it goes far beyond what is reasonable, literal, or credible, either to entertain an audience or to criticize someone for overstating a point. The word is related to hyperbole, the figure of speech in which something is represented as much larger, more important, or more extreme than it really is. Although hyperbolical can describe a single expression, it also applies more broadly to a style of writing or speaking marked by extravagant claims. In ordinary modern use, hyperbolic is usually the more familiar and neutral choice, while hyperbolical is more formal, literary, or slightly old-fashioned. The term is useful when discussing rhetoric, advertising, satire, and exaggerated praise or criticism.
adjectiveCharacterized by deliberate or extreme exaggeration for emphasis, effect, or rhetorical force. In modern usage, it can also suggest that an expression is so exaggerated as to be implausible.
- Deliberately or extremely exaggerated, especially for rhetorical effect.
"His hyperbolical claims of saving the ocean in a single morning amused everyone at the press conference."
"The advertisement was filled with hyperbolical promises that no reasonable customer would expect to be fulfilled."
"The novel uses hyperbolical descriptions to turn an ordinary village into an almost mythical place."
Hyperbolical language turns ordinary admiration into something grander than life: a dazzling sunset becomes a fire that painted the entire sky.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hyperbolical come from?
The word comes from hyperbole, which in turn comes from Greek hyperbolē, from hyper- meaning “over” or “beyond” and ballein meaning “to throw.” The adjective was formed in English with the suffix -ical and has been used in English since the early 17th century. Related forms include the common adjective hyperbolic and the verb hyperbolize.
Related word forms
How hyperbolical is actually used
This is a formal and literary word. In contemporary English, “hyperbolic” is generally more common, while “hyperbolical” can sound elevated or old-fashioned.
Easily confused with hyperbolical
Both terms mean exaggerated, but “hyperbolic” is the more common modern adjective, while “hyperbolical” is more formal and literary.