Definition of manic

The word "manic" originates from the Greek word "μανικός" (manikos), meaning "mad" or "raving". It first appeared in English in the 16th century, referring to a state of mental derangement or frenzy. This stemmed from the ancient Greek belief that madness was caused by a state of "mania," often associated with divine possession. Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe a phase of mood disorder characterized by elevated energy, excitement, and often erratic behavior, leading to its modern usage in clinical psychology.