Insanity

/ɪnˈsæn.ɪ.ti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The state of being seriously mentally ill; madness.

The court ruled that he was not guilty by reason of insanity.

A severe disturbance of the mind characterized by disorganized thinking or a loss of contact with reality.

The patient was diagnosed with insanity after exhibiting extreme paranoia and delusions.

Extreme foolishness or irrationality.

It was pure insanity to attempt such a dangerous stunt without proper safety measures.

From Latin 'insanitās', meaning 'insanity, madness', from 'in-' (not) + 'sanus' (healthy, sane).

the insanity defense

A legal defense strategy to argue that a defendant was not responsible for their actions due to mental illness.

insanity clause

A part of a contract that allows for cancellation if a party becomes insane.

insanity level

A colloquial term to refer to the extent of irrational behavior or chaos.

sane

Mentally healthy; of sound mind.

madness

The state of being mentally ill; severe folly.

derangement

A disturbed state of mind; insanity.

Going crazy or acting irrationally.

That rollercoaster was insanity!

An excessive amount of excitement or chaos.

The concert was complete insanity with everyone dancing wildly.