noun
hype
A person addicted to drugs.
The counselor rejects the insulting label “hype” for someone with an addiction.
Etymology
The slang developed through the shortened name of the hypodermic needle. It transferred the injecting instrument’s name to a person associated with drug injection.
More examples
- He resents being called a hype instead of being offered help.
- The novel follows two hypes who enter a recovery program.
- She describes herself as a former hype who now helps others.
Forms
hype · hypes
Similar words
- addict
- Broader term for someone dependent on drugs or another activity.
- junkie
- Similarly derogatory slang, especially for someone addicted to heroin.