Loony: meaning, definitions and examples

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loony

 

[ ˈluːni ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

mental state

The term 'loony' is used informally to describe someone who is crazy or eccentric. Often, it carries a humorous or lighthearted connotation but can also imply a more serious level of mental instability. It originated in American slang and is typically used in a derogatory manner to question someone's sanity or rationality. In some contexts, the term may be used affectionately among friends to describe quirks or odd behaviors.

Synonyms

crazy, eccentric, insane, mad

Examples of usage

  • That idea sounds a bit loony to me.
  • He's known for his loony antics at parties.
  • Her loony sense of humor always makes me laugh.

Translations

Translations of the word "loony" in other languages:

🇵🇹 louco

🇮🇳 पागल

🇩🇪 verrückt

🇮🇩 gila

🇺🇦 божевільний

🇵🇱 szalony

🇯🇵 狂った

🇫🇷 fou

🇪🇸 loco

🇹🇷 deli

🇰🇷 미친

🇸🇦 مجنون

🇨🇿 bláznivý

🇸🇰 bláznivý

🇨🇳 疯狂的

🇸🇮 nor

🇮🇸 geðveikur

🇰🇿 бөрі

🇬🇪 აგიჟებს

🇦🇿 dəlilik

🇲🇽 loco

Word origin

The word 'loony' is believed to have originated from the word 'lunatic,' which comes from the Latin word 'lunaticus,' meaning 'moonstruck.' This association with the moon dates back to ancient times when it was thought that the moon could influence people's mental health. The term 'lunatic' was historically used to describe individuals who exhibited erratic or insane behavior, particularly during certain phases of the moon. In the early 20th century, 'loony' emerged as a colloquial variation of 'lunatic,' often used in a more playful or light-hearted context. Over time, 'loony' has found a place in popular culture, appearing in various forms of media and entertainment, often to highlight quirky or amusing behavior rather than serious mental illness. Despite its origins, the modern usage of 'loony' frequently leans towards the humorous side, reflecting societal changes in attitudes towards mental health and eccentricity.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,621 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.