'Hysterical' Is a Connotatively Loaded Word

Dear Editor,
    In response to Jordan Smith's response to Jaime Perez [“Postmarks,” June 15], I'm not sure I understand why Smith was given a response to Perez at all, considering there were no matters of fact in dispute.
    There is a matter of fact I'd like to dispute in Ms. Smith's response. Ms. Smith says, "I don't consider the word 'hysterical' specific to one gender or race.”
    While the modern definition of the word is not gender specific, the word itself most certainly is.
    "Hysterical" comes to us from the Greek hysterikos “of the womb,” from hystera “womb.” Hysteria was thought to be associated with the womb.
    Words carry connotations beyond mere definitions. The word “hysteria” still carries some of the connotation of its original meaning to this day, Ms. Smith’s opinion notwithstanding.
    I’m sure Ms. Smith did not intend to offend. But she did choose to use a word that is loaded with connotation. Mr. Perez is being overly sensitive, but his reaction didn’t materialize out of thin air.