deranged

word · lemma: derange

/dɪˈɹeɪndʒd/
/dɪɹˈeɪndʒd/

Definition

Describes someone whose mind is seriously disturbed or not functioning normally, often behaving in an extremely strange or dangerous way.

Usage & Nuances

"Deranged" is formal or literary and is often used for extreme mental disturbance, sometimes in a medical or legal context, but also figuratively. Avoid using it casually about minor mistakes or eccentricities; it's much stronger than words like "crazy" or "weird." Common with "deranged killer," "deranged mind."

Example Sentences

The police said the deranged man was dangerous.

basic

A deranged person set fire to the building.

basic

The movie was about a deranged doctor.

basic

He looked completely deranged after days without sleep.

natural

"Stay away from that deranged guy," she whispered.

natural

Some described the attack as the work of a deranged mind.

natural