Lunatics: meaning, definitions and examples
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lunatics
[ luːnəˌtɪk ]
mental state
Lunatics are individuals who are considered to be insane or exhibit extreme irrational behavior. Historically, the term has been used to describe people with mental illnesses, often in a derogatory manner. In modern usage, it can refer more generally to people acting wildly or unpredictably.
Synonyms
crazy person, fool, insane person, madman, maniac.
Examples of usage
- The policy was criticized as being lunatic and out of touch with reality.
- Some believed the judge’s decision was that of a lunatic.
- He ran around the streets shouting like a lunatic.
- In his lunatic fantasies, he imagined he could fly.
- The news report highlighted the lunatic fringe of the political movement.
Etymology
The word 'lunatic' originates from the Latin term 'lunaticus', which means 'moonstruck' or 'of the moon'. The connection between the moon and madness dates back to ancient times, where it was believed that the phases of the moon could influence human behavior, especially causing temporary insanity, particularly during the full moon. The term was also used in the Middle Ages, where it was often applied to individuals thought to be affected by the moon's effects on mental health. Over centuries, the word has evolved, but it has retained its link to ideas of insanity and irrational behavior, often carrying a stigma associated with mental health issues. In modern contexts, while 'lunatic' can still describe someone behaving wildly, it is often considered derogatory and is used less frequently in clinical language.