Pronunciation: [hˈɛktɪk] (IPA) 
The word "hectic" is spelled with a silent "h" at the beginning, followed by the sound of "e" as in "bed," and then the sound of "k" as in "kite." The second syllable is spelled with the sound of "t" as in "tap," followed by the sound of "ik" as in "stick." The stress is on the first syllable, meaning it is pronounced "HEK-tik." This word is commonly used to describe a situation, lifestyle or schedule that is busy and chaotic.
Hectic is an adjective that describes a state of intense activity, excitement, or agitation that can be overwhelming or chaotic. The word often suggests a frenzied or rushed experience or environment.
When something is described as hectic, it implies a high level of activity, busyness, or demand. It is commonly used to convey a sense of hurried or fast-paced conditions. For example, a hectic schedule might refer to a person having a jam-packed or overloaded agenda with little time for relaxation or leisure activities. Similarly, a hectic workplace could imply a chaotic atmosphere with constant deadlines, meetings, and a high workload.
Moreover, hectic can refer to a situation where there is a lot of noise or commotion. It describes an environment that is bustling, lively, bustling, or boisterous. This may be observed in a crowded shopping mall during holiday seasons, a city street filled with honking cars, or a noisy gathering with people talking, laughing, and moving energetically. In such scenarios, there is often a sense of heightened energy, restlessness, or agitation.
Overall, hectic describes a condition characterized by intense activity, excitement, noise, or confusion. It signifies a state of busyness, chaos, or overstimulation, often leaving the person experiencing it feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.
1. Constitutional. 2. Relating to the daily rise of temperature in active tuberculosis. 3. An afternoon rise of temperature, accompanied by a flush on the cheeks, occurring in active tuberculosis. 4. The flush accompanying hectic fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Constitutional; habitual; affected with fevers called hectic.
• A peculiar remitting fever attended with alternate chill and heat.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "hectic" originated from the Late Latin term "hecticus", which was borrowed from the Greek word "hektikos". The Greek term "hektikos" referred to a medical condition known as "hektikē pnoē", which translates to "hectic (fever or respiration)". The Greek word "hektikos" was derived from the verb "ekhein", meaning "to have, to hold". This etymology highlights the connection between the word "hectic" and the notion of a feverish, excited, or agitated state.
