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

Thyroid dysfunction, either underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), may lead to heart block. —Christopher Lee, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024

Treating hyperthyroidism involves medicine, radioiodine therapy, or thyroid surgery. —Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024

The inability to gain weight may be due to a health condition like hyperthyroidism. —Patty Weasler, Rn, Bsn, Verywell Health, 16 Oct. 2024

Injuries, certain medications, infections, skin conditions, and endocrine disorders like Addison's disease or hyperthyroidism can also cause a black line on one or more of your nails. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1900, in the meaning defined above

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