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Frenzy: meaning, definitions and examples

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frenzy

 

[ˈfrɛnzi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a state of

A state of wild or uncontrolled activity; a temporary madness or delirium.

Synonyms

frenetic activity, madness, mania.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
frenzy

Used to describe a state of wild excitement or uncontrollable activity, often in a short period. This word can be neutral, but sometimes carries a slightly negative connotation if the situation is chaotic.

  • The shoppers were in a frenzy during the Black Friday sale.
  • The fans went into a frenzy when the band appeared on stage.
madness

Usually refers to extreme foolishness or irrational behavior. This word carries a strong negative connotation and suggests a lack of control or sanity.

  • The decision to invest all the money in one stock was sheer madness.
  • The party turned into madness as guests started behaving recklessly.
mania

Often describes an obsessive preoccupation with something. It has a clinical connotation but can be used more broadly. It typically implies an intense and often irrational enthusiasm.

  • Her mania for collecting stamps has taken over her entire house.
  • The community experienced a fitness mania, with everyone joining gyms and exercising.
frenetic activity

Describes very fast and energetic activity but with more of a sense of disorganization or chaos. It usually has a negative connotation.

  • The office was characterized by frenetic activity as workers rushed to meet the deadline.
  • There was a frenetic activity in the kitchen as everyone tried to prepare for the party.

Examples of usage

  • He was in a frenzy of excitement before the big game.
  • The crowd worked themselves into a frenzy during the concert.
Context #2 | Verb

to cause

To cause to become wildly excited or uncontrolled.

Synonyms

agitate, excite, stir up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
frenzy

Used when describing a state of uncontrolled excitement or wild behavior, often in a chaotic or intense situation.

  • The crowd went into a frenzy when the band started playing.
  • After the stock market announcement, traders were in a frenzy.
excite

Used to describe causing someone to feel very happy, enthusiastic, or eager. Can also refer to increased activity or energy in a general sense.

  • The new movie trailer excited the fans.
  • The discovery of the ancient ruins excited the archaeologists.
agitate

Often used to describe causing someone to feel anxious, nervous, or disturbed. It can also refer to stirring up public concern or unrest.

  • The protesters' chants agitated the government officials.
  • She was deeply agitated by the news of the accident.
stir up

Typically used to describe causing strong emotions or reactions, sometimes in a controversial or disruptive manner. It can have a negative connotation if causing trouble or conflict.

  • The politician's remarks stirred up a lot of anger among the citizens.
  • The teacher's inspirational speech stirred up a sense of ambition in the students.

Examples of usage

  • The news frenzyed the public into a state of panic.
  • The rumors about the company merger frenzyed the stock market.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Old French 'frensy,' which meant 'madness' or 'fury.'
  • It traces back to the Latin 'frenesia,' which means 'frenzy' or 'delirium,' showing its long-standing link to uncontrollable emotions.
  • Related terms in other languages, like the Spanish 'frenesí,' also emphasize the chaotic nature associated with the word.

Psychology

  • In psychology, a frenzy can refer to a temporary loss of self-control, often triggered by high emotions.
  • Frenzied behavior can be a response to stress or overwhelming situations where individuals feel they can't cope.
  • Studies show that people are more prone to frenzy-like states in crowds, where group dynamics can amplify feelings.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in movies and songs to describe moments of intense excitement, like fans going wild at a concert.
  • In literature, frenzy is commonly depicted in characters experiencing strong emotions, leading to dramatic and unexpected actions.
  • Television shows frequently portray 'frenzy' during cliffhangers or dramatic scenes where characters lose control of their emotions.

History

  • Historically, frenzy has been associated with various social movements where collective excitement can lead to chaotic events, such as riots.
  • In the 18th century, the concept was often linked to 'frenzied mobs' during revolutionary times, where groups acted irrationally under shared passions.
  • Artists and writers of the Romantic era often explored themes of frenzy as a reflection of human emotion and the struggle against social norms.

Nature

  • In nature, the term can describe animals exhibiting frenzied behavior during mating seasons or when they feel threatened.
  • Examples like fish schools moving in a synchronized frenzy help protect them from predators, showing how frenzied behaviors can have survival benefits.
  • Seasonal changes can trigger frenzied activity in wildlife, illustrating the instinctive responses to environmental stimuli.

Translations

Translations of the word "frenzy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 frenesi

🇮🇳 उन्माद

🇩🇪 Raserei

🇮🇩 kegilaan

🇺🇦 шал

🇵🇱 szał

🇯🇵 熱狂

🇫🇷 frénésie

🇪🇸 frenesí

🇹🇷 çılgınlık

🇰🇷 광란

🇸🇦 هياج

🇨🇿 šílenství

🇸🇰 zúrivosť

🇨🇳 狂热

🇸🇮 norost

🇮🇸 æði

🇰🇿 есалаңдық

🇬🇪 გიჟური

🇦🇿 dəli

🇲🇽 frenesí

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,642, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.