frenetic
Frenetic (adjective) means Fast, intense and slightly out of control, in a way that suggests hurried energy or agitation. Example: “The kitchen hit a frenetic pace as soon as the doors opened.”
How to use frenetic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishVery fast and busy in a wild, restless way.
Neutral and common in journalism, especially about sport, markets, trading floors and city life. The adverb is frenetically.
Note the spelling: it begins fren-, not phren-, even though the Greek root does.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The kitchen hit a _____ pace as soon as the doors opened.
Etymology
Via Old French frenetique and Latin phreneticus from Greek phrenitis, an inflammation of the brain, from phren meaning mind. Frantic comes from the same root.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for frenetic
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between frenetic and frantic?
They share an origin and overlap heavily, but frantic emphasises distress or panic — a frantic parent searching for a child — while frenetic emphasises restless speed and intensity without necessarily any fear. A trading floor is frenetic; a rescue attempt is frantic.
Is frenetic positive or negative?
It is broadly neutral and depends on context. Frenetic energy in a live performance or a film's editing is often praised, whereas a frenetic schedule usually implies exhaustion.
What is the meaning of frenetic?
"frenetic" (adjective) means fast, intense and slightly out of control, in a way that suggests hurried energy or agitation.
What is another word for frenetic?
Other words for "frenetic" include frantic, hectic, feverish, manic, frenzied.