dysphoria

noun

dys·​pho·​ria dis-ˈfȯr-ē-ə 

plural dysphorias

: a state of feeling very unhappy, uneasy, or dissatisfied

Paradoxically, chronic cocaine use eventually leads to dysphoria—a depressed, low-energy state characterized by flattened emotions, a lack of interest in sex, and physical immobility.

—James Lieber

see also gender dysphoria

Examples of dysphoria in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In other developments, Tao and Elle’s attempt to get physical triggers her dysphoria, Isaac appears to have been cast in the role of third wheel, and like fellow sixth-former Nick, Tara is feeling the pressure of basically deciding her whole future. —Charlie Mason, TVLine, 17 Sep. 2024

Marijuana with a high THC-to-CBD ratio increases the risk of dysphoria and panic. —Mark A. R. Kleiman, Foreign Affairs, 28 June 2018

As for trans students, periods can exacerbate the dysphoria experienced by some transgender kids. —Lisa Jarvis, The Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2024

Facial hair modifications like facial hair grafts and hair removal through procedures like electrolysis can be a crucial part of alleviating dysphoria for many trans people. —Charlie Markbreiter, Them, 9 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, borrowed from Greek dysphoría "malaise, discomfort, vexation," from dýsphoros "hard to bear, grievous" (from dys- dys- + -phoros, nominal ablaut derivative from the base of phérein "to carry, bear") + -ia -ia entry 1 — more at bear entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing dysphoria

• gender dysphoria

Medical Definition

dysphoria

noun

dys·​pho·​ria dis-ˈfōr-ē-ə, -ˈfȯr- 

1

: a state of feeling very unhappy, uneasy, or dissatisfied

Since early adolescence she had had periods of a few days to a week of dysphoria, crying spells, decreased sleep with early-morning awakening …

—Edmund C. Settle, Jr., The Journal of the American Medical Association

Experimental subjects report intense euphoria, sometimes followed by a "crash," or extreme dysphoria, and a craving for more cocaine.

—Craig Van Dyke and Robert Byck, Scientific American

compare euphoria sense 1

2

: gender dysphoria

Gender confirmation surgery … can assist most patients in relieving their dysphoria and reduce the risk of associated symptoms such as depression, suicidality, anxiety, drug abuse, and social isolation.

—Nick Esmonde et al., Journal of Craniofacial Surgery