Meaning & Definition of Lunacy in English
Lunacy
Pronunciation:
/ˈluːnəsi/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
lunaciesMeaning and Definition of Lunacy
1. Primary Definition
The state of being mad or insane; foolish behavior.
2. Detailed Definitions
Definition: The condition of being mentally ill; insanity.
Example Sentence: His actions were a clear sign of lunacy, as they defied all rational thought.
Definition: Extreme foolishness or irrationality.
Example Sentence: It was pure lunacy to think they could win without any preparation.
Definition: Behavior that is wildly out of control or erratic.
Example Sentence: The lunacy of the crowd during the event led to chaos.
Etymology
Origin: The term 'lunacy' comes from the Latin 'lunaticus', meaning 'moonstruck', reflecting the historical belief that the moon could influence mental states.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- lunatic fringe: A group of people whose beliefs or behavior are considered extreme or irrational.
- lunatic asylum: A historical term for an institution for the care of the mentally ill.
Translations
- Spanish: lunacía
- French: lunatique
- German: Wahnsinn
- Russian: лунатизм
Related Words
- lunatic: A person who is considered to be insane.
- moonstruck: Affected by the moon; dreamy or crazy.
Slang Meanings of lunacy
Meaning: Going off the deep end.
Example Sentence: After hearing the news, she went totally lunacy.
Meaning: Out of one's mind.
Example Sentence: He was acting lunacy after staying awake for three days straight.