Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
mass-hysteria
noun
/mæs hɪˈstɛr.i.ə/
Definition
A phenomenon in which a group of people experience similar symptoms of a psychological condition, often without a known physical cause.
Examples
- The outbreak of mass-hysteria during the concert led to people fainting and panicking in the crowd.
- In the 17th century, accusations of witchcraft often stirred up mass-hysteria in small towns.
- Social media can sometimes amplify mass-hysteria over unfounded fears or rumors.
Meaning
Mass-hysteria refers to the shared, often irrational behavior and reactions of a group of people, typically arising in response to a perceived threat or emotional stress. It can result in physical symptoms, widespread panic, or even social phenomena, like collective beliefs or movements.
Synonyms
- Collective panic
- Mass delusion
- Collective frenzy
