Hyperinflation is an economic condition where prices rise rapidly, often exceeding 50% per month. This extreme inflation erodes the purchasing power of money, making everyday goods and services increasingly expensive. It typically occurs when a government prints excessive amounts of currency, often to pay off debts or finance spending without sufficient economic growth. Countries experiencing hyperinflation may see their currency become nearly worthless, leading people to rely on alternative forms of money, such as foreign currencies or bartering. Historical examples include Weimar Germany in the 1920s and Zimbabwe in the late 2000s, where citizens faced skyrocketing prices and severe economic instability.