Meaning & Definition of word "Insanity"
Insanity
/ɪnˈsæn.ɪ.ti/
noun:
- 1. The state of being seriously mentally ill; madness.
- Example: The court ruled that he was not guilty by reason of insanity.
- 2. A severe disturbance of the mind characterized by disorganized thinking or a loss of contact with reality.
- Example: The patient was diagnosed with insanity after exhibiting extreme paranoia and delusions.
- 3. Extreme foolishness or irrationality.
- Example: It was pure insanity to attempt such a dangerous stunt without proper safety measures.
Etymology
●From Latin 'insanitās', meaning 'insanity, madness', from 'in-' (not) + 'sanus' (healthy, sane).
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
sane:
Mentally healthy; of sound mind.
madness:
The state of being mentally ill; severe folly.
derangement:
A disturbed state of mind; insanity.
Slang Meanings of insanity
Meaning: Going crazy or acting irrationally.
● Example Sentence: That rollercoaster was insanity!
Meaning: An excessive amount of excitement or chaos.
● Example Sentence: The concert was complete insanity with everyone dancing wildly.