Meaning & Definition of word "Haywire"
Haywire
/ˈheɪˌwaɪər/
noun:
- 1. A type of wire used in agriculture and farming, typically for binding hay.
- Example: We used haywire to secure the bales of hay in the barn.
adjective:
- 1. Out of control; chaotic or confused.
- Example: After the sudden change in the management, the whole organization went haywire.
- 2. Not functioning properly.
- Example: The machine has gone haywire and needs to be repaired immediately.
Etymology
●Originating from the use of 'haywire' in farming to refer to wire used to bind hay bales, which could become tangled or chaotic.
Common Phrases and Expressions
go haywire:
to become chaotic or out of control
run haywire:
to function improperly or erratically
put something haywire:
to cause something to become confused or disordered
Related Words
chaos:
a state of complete disorder and confusion
confusion:
lack of clarity or order
disarray:
a state of disorganization or untidiness
Slang Meanings of haywire
Meaning: to lose control of a situation
● Example Sentence: Things got really haywire at the party when the cops showed up.
Meaning: to be mentally confused or overwhelmed
● Example Sentence: I was feeling haywire after studying all night.