madness Definition
- 1the state of being mentally ill, especially severely
- 2extremely foolish or stupid behavior
Using madness: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "madness" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The madness of the king was well-known throughout the kingdom.
Example
It's madness to go out in this storm!
Example
The idea that the earth is flat is pure madness.
Example
The madness of war has destroyed countless lives.
madness Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for madness
Antonyms for madness
Idioms Using madness
Example
The constant noise from the construction site next door is driving me to madness!
Example
She's a brilliant artist, but she definitely has a touch of madness about her.
Example
After years of exposure to mercury, hat makers were known to go mad. That's why we have the phrase 'mad as a hatter.'
Phrases with madness
used to express that a person's mental health can be negatively affected by a stressful situation or experience
Example
Working long hours without rest can lead to burnout. Remember, madness takes its toll.
a phenomenon where a large group of people can collectively engage in irrational or dangerous behavior
Example
The madness of crowds can lead to panic and chaos, as seen in stampedes or riots.
a phrase used to describe a seemingly crazy or unconventional approach to problem-solving that actually works
Example
His colleagues thought his methods were insane, but he proved them wrong. There was madness in his method.
Origins of madness
from Old English 'gemædde', meaning 'out of one's mind'
Summary: madness in Brief
The term 'madness' [ˈmædnəs] refers to a state of severe mental illness or extremely foolish behavior. It can be used to describe the irrational behavior of individuals or groups, as in 'The madness of war.' Phrases like 'madness takes its toll' and idioms like 'mad as a hatter' further illustrate the concept of madness.
