1. An excessive or exaggerated response to a stimulus, often used in medical and psychological contexts.
Usage: commonly used in clinical and scientific contexts; often refers to behavioral, emotional, or physiological overresponses
2. In attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), excessive motor activity and impulsive behavior.
Usage: medical/psychiatric terminology; often used in developmental and behavioral assessment

Examples

• The child's hyperreactivity to loud noises made it difficult for her to attend school assemblies.
• Patients with asthma may experience airway hyperreactivity when exposed to cold air.
• His hyperreactivity to criticism often led to defensive arguments with colleagues.
• The medication was designed to reduce hyperreactivity in children with ADHD.
• Skin hyperreactivity to certain fabrics is common in people with sensitive dermatitis.
• Teachers noted the student's hyperreactivity during transitions between classroom activities.