mass hysteria

noun

, Psychology.

1. a condition affecting a group of persons, characterized by excitement or anxiety, irrational behavior or beliefs, or inexplicable symptoms of illness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mass hysteria¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

If the unchecked, unfounded Bey-Tay rumors now feel like a moment of virtual mass hysteria, it’s also easy to understand why so many of us got carried away with the showbiz wish-casting.

From Los Angeles Times

But after war breaks out, panic and civil unrest run rampant, with the local authorities unable to stem the tide of mass hysteria.

From Los Angeles Times

The Killers concluded their set with two consecutive different renditions of their eternal anthem Mr Brightside - the first a surprising synth reworking - prompting mass hysteria.

From BBC

Rome lives in a condition of mass hysteria since the 'Special One' landed in the Italian capital in July 2020.

From BBC

"In field findings and laboratory investigations ... no toxic substance able to cause poisoning was observed ... and there have been no deaths or long-term physical conditions," the report said, blaming mischievousness and mass hysteria among students.

From Reuters