Madness: meaning, definitions and examples

Refer to the first entry for context and examples.

Often used in both clinical and dramatic contexts to describe full-blown mental illness or extremely irrational behavior. Can carry negative connotations.

• The court questioned his insanity plea
• The idea seemed like complete insanity to everyone

Used primarily to describe extreme irrationality or foolishness, often with an old-fashioned tone. Historically related to mental illness but now more commonly used metaphorically.

• Thinking you can climb that mountain alone is sheer lunacy
• The decision was criticized as utter lunacy

Primarily used in a clinical or serious context to describe severe mental illness or disorder. This word carries a negative connotation.

• His derangement was evident in his erratic behavior
• The story depicted a man's slow descent into derangement

Often used in informal ways to describe chaotic or unexpected situations. It can also describe mental instability but in a less clinical manner.

• The craziness of the festival was overwhelming
• There's a lot of craziness going on in the office today

Usually refers to a state of severe mental illness or extreme irrational behavior. Can be used to describe actions or situations that are wildly unreasonable or chaotic.

• His repeated attempts to climb the mountain despite warnings were sheer madness.
• The idea of building a house on the cliff edge is madness.

Describes a lack of good sense or judgment. Often implies minor, although somewhat regrettable, actions or decisions.

• His foolishness in spending all his savings on a risky investment cost him dearly.
• She realized the foolishness of her actions after it was too late.

Refers to the quality of being illogical or unreasonable. Often used in psychological or analytical discussions.

• His fear of flying is based on pure irrationality.
• The decision to ignore all scientific evidence seemed like stark irrationality.

Used to describe something that is wildly unreasonable, illogical, or inappropriate. Often used in a more formal or intellectual context.

• The absurdity of the situation made everyone laugh.
• To claim that the earth is flat is sheer absurdity.

Describes a lack of concern for the consequences of one's actions. Often used to criticize dangerous or risky behavior.

• The driver's recklessness put everyone's lives in danger.
• Her recklessness with money eventually led to her financial ruin.