hyperthyroidism

noun

hy·​per·​thy·​roid·​ism ˌhī-pər-ˈthī-ˌrȯi-ˌdi-zəm 

: excessive functional activity of the thyroid gland

also : the resulting condition marked especially by increased metabolic rate, enlargement of the thyroid gland, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure

Examples of hyperthyroidism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to more serious health conditions, such as osteoporosis or a thyroid storm, says Chang. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025

It is often associated with underlying health issues such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), or certain psychological disorders. —Sarah Jividen, Health, 5 Dec. 2024

But excessive sweating can be a sign of a medical issue like heart problems, low blood sugar, hyperthyroidism or infections like the flu or tuberculosis. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025

This medication should not be used on pregnant or lactating animals, or animals with urinary, stomach or intestinal obstructions, high blood pressure or hyperthyroidism. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1900, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hyperthyroidism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anabolism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism

Kids Definition

hyperthyroidism

noun

hy·​per·​thy·​roid·​ism ˌhī-pər-ˈthī-ˌrȯid-ˌiz-əm 

-rəd-

: abnormally high activity of the thyroid gland

also : the resulting abnormal state of health

hyperthyroid

-ˌrȯid

adjective

Medical Definition

hyperthyroidism

noun

hy·​per·​thy·​roid·​ism -ˌrȯid-ˌiz-əm, -rəd- 

: excessive functional activity of the thyroid gland

also : the resulting condition marked especially by increased metabolic rate, enlargement of the thyroid gland, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure

called also thyrotoxicosis

see graves' disease