mad

UK: mæd | US: mæd

Definition

  1. adj. mentally ill; insane

  2. adj. very angry or furious

  3. adj. extremely foolish or irrational

  4. adj. (informal) intensely enthusiastic about something

Structure
mad <mentally disturbed or angry>
Etymology

The word "mad" traces back to Old English gemǣdd (past participle of gemǣdan, "to make mad"), derived from Proto-Germanic *ga-maidaz ("changed, altered"). The core idea was "altered in mind," reflecting insanity or irrationality. Over time, it expanded to include intense anger (e.g., "mad at someone") and later, informal enthusiasm (e.g., "mad about music"). Its simplicity and emotional resonance kept it stable in spelling and usage across centuries.

Examples

  1. The villain in the story was clearly mad, plotting to destroy the city.

  2. She was mad at her brother for breaking her favorite toy.

  3. It would be mad to go hiking in such dangerous weather.

  4. He’s absolutely mad about vintage cars and collects them.

  5. The crowd went mad when their team scored the winning goal.