Berserk

/bərˈzɜrk/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Out of control with anger or excitement; frenzied.
He went berserk after hearing the news of his team's unexpected loss.
Wild or frantically violent; a state of violent rage.
The dog went berserk when it spotted the squirrel in the yard.
Unrestrained and ungovernable; mad.
During the rally, the crowd became berserk, chanting and waving their banners enthusiastically.

Etymology

From Old Norse 'berserkr', meaning 'bear shirt', referring to warriors who fought with frenzied fury.

Common Phrases and Expressions

go berserk
To become extremely angry or excited.
berserk mode
A state of intense fury and energy.

Related Words

frenzy
A state of uncontrolled excitement or wild behavior.
rage
Intense anger or violent anger.

Slang Meanings

To lose one's temper completely.
When I found out someone scratched my car, I seriously went berserk!
To act wildly or enthusiastically.
They went berserk at the concert, dancing and singing loudly.