frantic
UK: ˈfræntɪk | US: ˈfræntɪk
adj. wild with emotion (e.g., fear, excitement, or anxiety)
adj. hurried, disorganized, or chaotic
frantic = fran<old french frenetique> + tic<adjective suffix>
- fran (from Old French frenetique, meaning "mad, insane," derived from Latin phreneticus, from Greek phrenitikos, related to phren "mind")
- tic (adjective-forming suffix, often indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "frantic" traces back to Greek phrenitikos ("delirious"), linked to phren ("mind"). It entered English via Old French frenetique, evolving to describe a state of wild, uncontrolled emotion or action. The modern sense retains this intensity, often implying chaos or desperation.
She became frantic when she realized her passport was missing.
The frantic search for the lost child lasted all night.
His frantic gestures signaled danger to the crowd.
The office was in a frantic rush to meet the deadline.
The dog’s frantic barking woke the neighbors.