mad

The word “mad” means angry or annoyed. In plain terms, angry, or (in the older sense) mentally unwell — context tells you which.

“Mad” is pronounced MAD (/ˈmæd/ in IPA).

Here is “mad” used in a sentence: “She was mad at her brother for breaking her phone.”

Words with a similar meaning to “mad” include mighty, kinda, hella and helluv.

“Mad” is an adjective.

The word “mad” comes from Old English. From Old English gemæd(ed), "made insane", tracing back to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to change or damage".

“Mad” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Mad” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: angry or annoyed.

In this sense they mean much the same thing — feeling strong displeasure. Angry is the neutral, standard word, while mad is more informal and especially common in American English. 'I'm mad at you' and 'I'm angry with you' carry the same meaning, though mad sounds more casual and conversational.

It can mean either, depending on region and context. In American English, mad most often means angry or annoyed. In British English, mad traditionally means insane, wild, or crazy, as in 'mad with excitement.' Context usually makes the intended sense clear, but the two meanings can cause genuine confusion between dialects.

Meaning angry, mad is informal and best suited to casual speech and writing. In more formal settings, 'angry,' 'annoyed,' or 'irritated' are usually preferred. Mad has a relaxed, everyday feel, which makes it common in conversation but less fitting for professional reports, official letters, or serious formal prose.

When mad means angry, its opposites include calm, pleased, and content. 'Happy' or 'delighted' contrast with it when the anger is directed at a situation. Each opposite points to a settled, untroubled state rather than the irritation and displeasure that mad describes in this sense.