Definition of frantic

The word "frantic" originated in the Middle English language, around the 15th century. Its roots can be traced back to the Old French word "frantique," which was an adjective used to describe a person who was possessed by the devil or whose mind had become disturbed due to demonic influence. Over time, the meaning of the word "frantic" evolved to describe a person who was in a state of extreme and often uncontrollable agitation or excitement, typically caused by strong emotions such as fear, anxiety, or anger. This sense of the word is still present in many modern languages, such as Spanish (frenético) and Dutch (frantisch). The literal translation of the word "frantic" is "causing frenzy." The prefix "fran-" comes from the Old French word "franc," meaning "free" or "wild." The suffix "-tic" is derived from the Greek word "tikés" meaning "a state of agitation or excitement." In summary, the word "frantic" has its origins in the Old French word "frantique," which was a term used to describe a person possessed by the devil. Its current meaning, describing a state of intense and often uncontrollable agitation, is the result of language evolution over time.