Hysterical strength
Hysterical Strength
Hysterical strength (pronunciation: /hɪˈstɛrɪkəl strɛŋkθ/) is a display of extreme strength by humans, beyond what is believed to be normal, usually occurring when people are in life-and-death situations.
Etymology
The term "hysterical strength" is derived from the word "hysteria" (from the Greek hystera meaning uterus) and "strength" (from the Old English strengþu meaning power, force). The term "hysteria" was historically used to describe a medical condition thought to be particular to women and caused by disturbances of the uterus. In this context, however, "hysterical" refers to an uncontrollable outburst of emotion or fear often characterized by irrationality, laughter, weeping, etc.
Explanation
Hysterical strength can be explained as a response to a fight or flight situation. The adrenaline rush that occurs during a life-threatening situation is believed to enhance the body's physical abilities, allowing a person to momentarily exhibit strength beyond their normal limitations.
Related Terms
- Adrenaline: A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, especially in conditions of stress, increasing rates of blood circulation, breathing, and carbohydrate metabolism and preparing muscles for exertion.
- Fight or flight: A physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival.
- Superhuman strength: Superhuman strength is an ability commonly invoked in fiction and other literary works such as mythology. It is the power to exert force and lift weights beyond what is physically possible for a human.
- Stress (biology): In biology, stress is the body's method of reacting to a challenge or physical and psychological barrier. Stimuli that alter an organism's environment are responded to by multiple systems in the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hysterical strength
- Wikipedia's article - Hysterical strength
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