Definition: To go crazy; to behave in a wild, frenzied manner.
Origins: This term is based on the Malay word amok, meaning “a state of frenzy.” In England, it was initially spelled amuck, as seen in works like Andrew Marvell’s account in The Rehearsal Transposed (1672): “Like a raging Indian . . . he runs a mucke (as they cal it there) stabbing every man he meets.”
Related Terms & Expressions
- Losing your marbles: To go insane or become extremely angry.
- Going bananas: Acting in a crazy or silly manner.
- Freaking out: Becoming extremely anxious, upset, or excited.
- Going nuts: Similar to going crazy, often in a rowdy or energetic way.
- Hitting the roof: Reacting to something in a very angry or overexcited manner.
Synonyms
- Wild
- Frenzied
- Insane
- Berserk
- Hysterical
Antonyms
- Calm
- Rational
- Composed
- Serene
- Tranquil
Wit & Wisdom
- “The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of the child into old age, which means never losing your enthusiasm.” – Aldous Huxley
- Quip: So, when you “run amok,” you’re technically staying young at heart!
Proverbs
- “He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
Literature & Pop Culture References
- Books: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey, capturing madness in a strikingly profound way.
- Movies: Mad Max: Fury Road, where everyone seems to be running amok.
- Songs: “Basket Case” by Green Day, encapsulating feelings of madness.
- Poetry: “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas explores fierce vitality.
### Which phrase accurately describes 'Running Amok'?
- [x] Going wild with frenzy.
- [ ] Eating too many muffins.
- [ ] Taking a long, peaceful nap.
- [ ] Sewing with crooked stitches.
> **Explanation:** Sensibly, "Going wild with frenzy" captures the essence of 'Running Amok'. The other choices are anything but!
### True or False: 'Running Amok' is based on a term from Malay.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Indeed, 'Running Amok' or 'amuk' comes from Malay, describing a frenzied state.
### What would be considered an action of 'Running Amok'?
- [x] Causing chaos in a supermarket.
- [ ] Sitting quietly and reading.
- [ ] Meditating peacefully.
- [ ] Sleeping soundly at home.
> **Explanation:** Running amok involves chaotic and wild behavior, certainly not conducive with calm activities like reading or meditating!
### Which idiom means something similar to 'Running Amok'?
- [x] Going bananas.
- [ ] Rolling rocks.
- [ ] Sleeping tight.
- [ ] Flying low.
> **Explanation:** "Going bananas" aligns closely with 'Running Amok' in terms of sheer wildness and frenzy.
### 'Running Amok' could be considered the opposite of which of these actions?
- [ ] Skipping merrily.
- [ ] Playing drums vigorously.
- [ ] Screaming in joy.
- [x] Meditating in a serene environment.
> **Explanation:** Meditating in a serene environment is the calm antithesis to the hectic madness of 'Running Amok'.
Inspirational Thought: “Amid the chaos, remember to find your inner peace — it’s a fine line between running amok and dancing freely under the stars.” – A. Frenzy Fiend
