Crazy: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from the late 16th century, derived from 'craze,' meaning to shatter or break.
• In the early 20th century, it began to describe people considered irrational, shifting from a literal to a figurative sense.

Pop Culture

• The song 'Crazy' by Gnarls Barkley became a massive hit in the mid-2000s and explored themes of mental and emotional challenges.
• Crazy characters in movies, like the Joker from Batman, highlight the complexities of madness in engaging ways.

Psychology

• Historically, the term was often used pejoratively to label individuals with mental health disorders, but this language is now discouraged.
• In psychology, unconventional behaviors can sometimes be labeled as 'eccentric' rather than 'crazy' to promote understanding and acceptance.

Linguistic Variations

• In different cultures, the equivalent of 'crazy' often has unique connotations, such as 'loco' in Spanish, reflecting diverse views of mental health.
• The term 'nuts' in American slang is another informal way of expressing similar ideas and can be used humorously.

Cultural Depictions

• Throughout history, art has often portrayed 'crazy' individuals as misunderstood geniuses, from van Gogh's life to Salvador Dalí's eccentric works.
• In literature, 'crazy' characters often challenge social norms, providing commentary on what it means to be sane in an insane world.

At #5,853 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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