English Reference
noun · verb · adjective

hype

n. · v. · adj.
US /ˈhaɪp/ UK /hˈaɪp/ hype UK spelling hypes, hyping

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a lot of excitement or praise for something, often more than it deserves.

    n.intensive or exaggerated publicity or promotion, often intended to create a sense of urgency or importance around a product or event.

    Simple

    The new movie didn't really live up to all the hype.

    In context

    Despite the massive marketing hype surrounding the product launch, initial sales figures were surprisingly modest.

    Usage

    Often used with the verb 'live up to'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    v.to talk about something a lot to make people excited about it.

    v.to promote or publicise a product or idea intensively, often using exaggerated claims.

    Simple

    The company is trying to hype their new app before it even comes out.

    In context

    The media began to hype the upcoming match weeks in advance, framing it as the greatest sporting event of the decade.

    Usage

    Often used as the phrasal verb 'hype up'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Slang

    adj.feeling very excited or energetic about something.

    adj.experiencing a state of high excitement or anticipation.

    Simple

    The crowd was so hype when the band finally walked onto the stage.

    In context

    The players were incredibly hype in the locker room, fueled by the prospect of winning their first championship title.

    Teacher's tip

    In formal writing, use 'excited' or 'enthusiastic' instead of this slang adjective form.

There's been growing hype about Japan as a travel destination among young British people.

BBC News· 29 Aug 2026

In the last decade, with little in the way of hype, he has quietly become the pre-eminent producer of his generation.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026

Clipping of hyperbole.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated