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.

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.