MEANING
Wildly frenzied or uncontrolled in manner, with a disturbing, exaggerated intensity.
Use it for
Use for exaggerated, frenzied energy in sound, movement, or expression.Make a sound or action feel unnervingly uncontrolled without explaining its cause.
Words that belong together
- maniacal laughter
- maniacal grin
- maniacal rhythm
On the page
The pump answered in a maniacal clatter that quickened as the pressure rose.
Nearby words
Opposite meanings
Word forms
- Base
- maniacal
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Usage notes
Often hyperbolic and stigmatizing when applied to people; use carefully, and do not treat it as a clinical diagnosis.
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