Definition of lunacy

lunacynoun

sự mất trí

/ˈluːnəsi//ˈluːnəsi/

The word "lunacy" originated in the Middle Ages, where it was associated with the phases of the moon. During that time, many people believed that the moon had a supernatural power over humans, particularly over their mental states. Specifically, it was thought that during full moon nights, people could become more prone to erratic behaviors, including violence and insanity. This belief gave rise to the term "lunacy," derived from the Latin words "luna" meaning "moon" and "acies" meaning "insanity." Over time, the phrase "once in the moon" came to describe a recurring event or behavior, while "moonstruck" was used to describe a person who appeared confused or irrational during full moon nights. With the advancement of medical knowledge in the 19th century, "lunacy" was replaced with more precise and medical terms for mental disorders, such as "mania" or "melancholia." In modern times, however, the term "lunacy" remains a colloquial term for behavior that is bizarre, irrational, or overly emotional, in reference to the historical moon-madness beliefs. In summary, the origin of the word "lunacy" can be traced back to ancient beliefs that linked lunar phases with human mental states, and has since evolved to take on newer meanings.

Summary
type danh từ
meaningtình trạng điên rồ, tình trạng mất trí
meaninghành động điên rồ, cử chỉ điên dại; ý nghĩ rồ dại
namespace

behaviour that is stupid or crazy

hành vi ngu ngốc hoặc điên rồ

Example:
  • It's sheer lunacy driving in such weather.

    Thật là điên rồ khi lái xe trong thời tiết như vậy.

  • a comedy show full of inspired lunacy

    một chương trình hài kịch đầy cảm hứng điên rồ

  • The idea of jumping out of an airplane without a parachute is nothing short of pure lunacy.

    Ý tưởng nhảy ra khỏi máy bay mà không có dù quả thực là một sự điên rồ.

  • The asylum for the criminally insane is filled with individuals suffering from varying degrees of lunacy.

    Nhà thương điên dành cho tội phạm là nơi tập trung những cá nhân mắc chứng mất trí ở nhiều mức độ khác nhau.

  • Spending thousands of dollars on a luxury car for a teenager with a history of reckless driving is the epitome of lunatic behavior.

    Việc chi hàng ngàn đô la cho một chiếc xe hơi sang trọng cho một thiếu niên có tiền sử lái xe liều lĩnh là biểu hiện của hành vi điên rồ.

Related words and phrases

mental illness

bệnh tâm thần

Related words and phrases

Related words and phrases