M&lsquoCulloch.
Hyssop
(Hys"sop) n. [OE. hysope, ysope, OF. ysope, F. hysope, hyssope, L. hysopum, hyssopum,
hyssopus, Gr. an aromatic plant, fr. Heb. esov.] A plant The leaves have an aromatic smell, and a
warm, pungent taste.
The hyssop of Scripture is supposed to be a species of caper but probably the name was used for several
different plants.
Hysteranthous
(Hys`ter*an"thous) a. [Gr. after + flower.] (Bot.) Having the leaves expand after the
flowers have opened. Henslow.
Hysteresis
(||Hys`te*re"sis) n. [NL., fr. Gr. to be behind, to lag.] (Physics) A lagging or retardation
of the effect, when the forces acting upon a body are changed, as if from velocity or internal friction; a
temporary resistance to change from a condition previously induced, observed in magnetism, thermoelectricity,
etc., on reversal of polarity.
Hysteria
(Hys*te"ri*a) n. [NL.: cf. F. hystérie. See Hysteric.] (Med.) A nervous affection, occurring
almost exclusively in women, in which the emotional and reflex excitability is exaggerated, and the will
power correspondingly diminished, so that the patient loses control over the emotions, becomes the
victim of imaginary sensations, and often falls into paroxism or fits.
The chief symptoms are convulsive, tossing movements of the limbs and head, uncontrollable crying
and laughing, and a choking sensation as if a ball were lodged in the throat. The affection presents the
most varied symptoms, often simulating those of the gravest diseases, but generally curable by mental
treatment alone.
Hysteric
(Hys*ter"ic Hys*ter"ic*al) a. [L. hystericus, Gr. fr. "yste`ra the womb; perh. akin to latter, later,
and E. utter, out.] Of or pertaining to hysteria; affected, or troubled, with hysterics; convulsive, fitful.
With no hysteric weakness or feverish excitement, they preserved their peace and patience.
Bancroft. Hysterics
(Hys*ter"ics) n. pl. (Med.) Hysteria.
