online vocabulary.com

Maniacal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Maniacal describes behavior that is wildly excessive, obsessive, or frenzied, often to the point of seeming insane. It is commonly used to characterize intense laughter, excitement, or aggression.

maniacal

/məˈnaɪəkəl/ /məˈnʌɪəkəl/

Definition:

Wildly irrational, violent, or frenzied in behavior or appearance.

Synonyms:

frenzied, crazed, wild, deranged

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

calm, sane

Common Collocations:

maniacal laughter, maniacal energy, maniacal obsession

Derivatives:

maniacally, maniac (noun)

Usage Tips:

Use "maniacal" to describe extreme or uncontrolled behavior, often with a negative connotation.

Common Phrases:

maniacal glee, maniacal grin, like a maniac

Etymology:

Derived from Late Latin "maniacus," meaning "insane," from Greek "mania" (madness).

Examples:

  • 1. His maniacal laughter frightened everyone in the room.
  • 2. She worked with maniacal focus to finish the project overnight.
  • 3. The villain’s maniacal plan threatened the entire city.
  • 4. His eyes had a maniacal gleam as he explained his idea.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS