Pronunciation: [pˈaɹənˌɔ͡ɪd] (IPA) 
The word "paranoid" is spelled with a "pa-" sound followed by "r-a-n" and then "-oyd". The first syllable is pronounced with a long "a" as in "bay", and the "r" has a slight emphasis. The second syllable rhymes with "tan", and the final syllable is pronounced as "oyd" with a long "o" sound followed by a "d" at the end. This word is often used to describe someone who is excessively suspicious or fearful.
Paranoid is an adjective that describes a state of extreme or irrational distrust and suspicion of others. It is often characterized by an intense and constant fear that others are plotting against or intending harm toward oneself, even in the absence of concrete evidence.
A person who is paranoid tends to interpret innocent actions or statements by others as malicious and threatening. They perceive the world through a lens of paranoia, seeing hidden motives or malevolent intentions where none may exist. This heightened sense of vigilance often leads to mistrust, isolation, and the belief that others are out to deceive or betray them.
Paranoia can affect various aspects of a person's life, including personal relationships, work, and daily interactions. This condition can contribute to feelings of anxiety, fear, and vulnerability, making it challenging for individuals to form and maintain healthy, trusting relationships. The paranoia may manifest in behaviors such as constant surveillance, secrecy, or defensive reactions, as the individual becomes hyper-vigilant in protecting themselves from perceived threats.
Paranoid thoughts can occur as a symptom of certain mental health disorders, including paranoid personality disorder and paranoid schizophrenia. However, it is important to note that occasional mistrust or suspicion does not necessarily indicate a paranoid personality or disorder.
Overall, the term "paranoid" describes an intense state of distrust and suspicion towards others, often leading to an exaggerated and irrational belief in others' harmful intentions.
Resembling paranoia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
* 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 "paranoid" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "paranoia", which combines two components: "para" meaning "beside" or "beyond", and "noos" meaning "mind" or "intellect". The word "paranoia" is often used in Greek literature to describe a mental condition characterized by extreme suspicion or irrational distrust of others. Over time, this term was adopted into English, and the word "paranoid" came to describe a state of excessive or unwarranted mistrust or suspicion.
