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adj

deranged

dih-RAYNJD

Deranged (adj) means mentally disturbed or behaving in a wild, irrational way. Example: “Witnesses described the attacker as deranged and shouting incoherently.”

adj
1
Mentally disturbed or behaving in a wild, irrational way.
"Witnesses described the attacker as deranged and shouting incoherently."
2
Not working properly; thrown into disorder.
"The old clock's deranged mechanism made it chime at random hours."

How to Use Deranged

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMentally unbalanced, or (less commonly) knocked out of proper working order.

When to use it

Strong, somewhat dated word for describing a person's mental state — often used dramatically rather than clinically.

Word Forms

more deranged comparative, most deranged superlative

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Witnesses described the attacker as _____ and shouting incoherently.

Etymology

From French derange, past participle of deranger, "to disturb the order of."

Origin: French

Rhymes for deranged

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “deranged” mean?

The word “deranged” means mentally disturbed or behaving in a wild, irrational way. In plain terms, mentally unbalanced, or (less commonly) knocked out of proper working order.

How do you pronounce “deranged”?

“Deranged” is pronounced dih-RAYNJD (/dɪˈɹeɪnd͡ʒd/ in IPA).

How do you use “deranged” in a sentence?

Here is “deranged” used in a sentence: “Witnesses described the attacker as deranged and shouting incoherently.”

What part of speech is “deranged”?

“Deranged” is an adjective.

Where does the word “deranged” come from?

The word “deranged” comes from French. From French derange, past participle of deranger, "to disturb the order of.".

How many meanings does “deranged” have?

“Deranged” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: mentally disturbed or behaving in a wild, irrational way.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial