Hyperbole is defined as:

• A. A sound-effect word
• B. A detailed description
• C. A direct comparison using 'like' or 'as'
• D. Excessive exaggeration used for humor or emphasis

Answer: (D)

Hyperbole is a figure of speech that uses extreme exaggeration for humorous or emphatic effect. It conveys how strong or dramatic something feels by overstating it beyond literal belief, not because it could actually happen. For example, saying “I’ve told you a million times” emphasizes that you’ve told someone many times, not that the exact number is real.

The option describing excessive exaggeration used for humor or emphasis is the best match because it captures both the over-the-top quality and the intentional, playful purpose of hyperbole. In contrast, a sound-effect word points to onomatopoeia (like “buzz” or “clang”), a detailed description is straightforward description rather than exaggeration, and a direct comparison using “like” or “as” is a simile.