derange

UK: dɪˈreɪndʒ | US: dɪˈreɪndʒ

Definition

  1. vt. to disturb the normal condition or functioning of; disarrange

  2. vt. to make insane or mentally unbalanced

Structure
de <reverse/remove>range <arrange>
Etymology

The word "derange" entered English in the late 18th century from French déranger, combining dé- (undoing) and ranger (to arrange). It originally described physical disarray but later expanded to mental disturbance, reflecting the idea of disrupting logical or emotional order.

Examples

  1. The storm deranged the carefully organized files in the office.

  2. Prolonged stress can derange a person's mental state.

  3. The sudden noise deranged her concentration during the exam.

  4. His theories were so radical that they seemed to derange conventional wisdom.

  5. The illness deranged his memory, leaving him confused.