What is the meaning of the prefix "hyper-"?

The prefix "hyper-" is derived from Greek, meaning "excessive" or "beyond." It is commonly used in various medical and scientific terms to indicate an increased level or quantity of something. For instance, in medical contexts, terms like "hypertension" (high blood pressure) and "hyperglycemia" (high blood sugar levels) demonstrate how "hyper-" indicates conditions that exceed normal or expected limits.

While "above, upon" captures a general aspect of the prefix, it does not encompass its specific connotation of excess as effectively as the definition of "excessive." Thus, recognizing that "hyper-" signifies an extreme or heightened state critical in understanding medical terminology is essential for effective communication in the field.