Crazy

Definition

Crazy is an adjective describing a state of mental instability, irrationality, or extreme enthusiasm. It can refer to unusual or unpredictable behavior, intense passion for something, or a lack of reasoned judgment.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (informal)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkreɪzi/
• Respelling: KRAY-zee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkreɪzi/
• Respelling: KRAY-zee

Etymology

The word "crazy" originated in the late 16th century from the verb "craze," which meant "to shatter or break." The word evolved to mean "broken in mind" and eventually came to denote mental instability or wild enthusiasm in modern English.

Derivatives

• Crazily (adverb)
• Craziness (noun)
• Crazy-making (adjective)
• Craze (noun/verb)
• Crazy-like (adjective)

Synonyms

• Insane
• Wild
• Irrational

Antonyms

• Calm
• Rational
• Sane

Usage

The adjective "crazy" is frequently used to describe erratic behavior, intense enthusiasm, or something unusual. For example, "He’s crazy about sports," or "That idea sounds crazy." It is widely used in both formal and informal contexts to express abnormal intensity or irrationality.

Related Terms

• Madness: The state of being mentally ill or extremely foolish.
• Eccentricity: Unconventional or strange behavior.
• Obsession: An excessive preoccupation with something.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Mentally unstable or irrational: Refers to behavior or thoughts that lack reason or sanity.
  • Example: "She thought his idea was completely crazy."
• Intensely enthusiastic or passionate: Describes someone with extreme enthusiasm or interest.
  • Example: "He’s crazy about travel and adventure."
• Unusual or unpredictable: Refers to something strange, surprising, or unexpected.
  • Example: "The weather has been crazy this week."

Noun (informal)

• A person exhibiting wild or irrational behavior: Informal term for someone acting erratically or passionately.
  • Example: "You’re a real crazy when it comes to roller coasters."