1. a mental condition characterized by delusions of persecution, unwarranted jealousy, or exaggerated self-importance
Usage: medical/psychological
2. suspicion and mistrust of people or their actions without evidence or justification
Usage: general usage

Examples

• His paranoia made him believe that his coworkers were plotting against him.
• The patient’s paranoia required careful treatment by a psychiatrist.
• She checked the locks three times due to her growing paranoia about break-ins.
• His paranoia about government surveillance led him to avoid using credit cards.
• The dictator’s paranoia caused him to distrust even his closest advisors.
• Her paranoia made it difficult to maintain friendships.
• The medication helped reduce his feelings of paranoia and anxiety.