hyperbole

noun

hī-ˈpər-bə-(ˌ)lē How to pronounce hyperbole (audio)
Definition of hyperbolenext
as in exaggeration
the representation of something in terms that go beyond the facts "enough food to feed a whole army" is a common example of hyperbole

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hyperbole Experts and European leaders said that’s not hyperbole but something that’s either already a grim reality or perilously close. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026 Those prone to hyperbole might be tempted to call this presidential tantrum disguised in procedural clothes a constitutional crisis. — Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026 Such is the relentless hyperbole of the book that the title seems to want an exclamation point. — Nick Holdstock, The Dial, 8 Sep. 2026 His seminal memoir, Kitchen Confidential, which rocketed him to fame at 44, is, by his own admission, peppered with myth and hyperbole. — Mike Miller, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hyperbole
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hyperbole
  1. exaggeration
  2. caricature
Noun
  • That may be an exaggeration, given Brazil’s clout and heft, and also its extensive ties with China, its biggest trade partner.
    — Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Even if that number is a gross exaggeration, this is a cash cow business.
    — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of exaggeration
Noun
  • But on that score, too, Jackson tries to soften the caricature of the billionaire executive.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026
  • What is acceptable in today’s society is the Real Housewives franchise, where all of these things kind of play out, but almost in caricature.
    — Raymond Ang, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of caricature

Browse Nearby Words

hyperawareness
hyperbole
hyperboles
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Cite this Entry

“Hyperbole.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hyperbole. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hyperbole

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hyperbole

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