LIKE MAD Meaning and
Definition
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Like mad is an idiomatic phrase used to describe an activity or action that is done with great intensity, enthusiasm, or speed. It portrays a sense of urgency, fervor, or recklessness in the way something is carried out. The phrase "like mad" implies a frenzied or frantic manner, often associated with extreme emotions or a strong desire to accomplish a task.
This expression is commonly used to emphasize the speed or intensity at which something is happening. It suggests a rapid and relentless pace, similar to the erratic behavior or movements of a person who is perceived as "mad" or insane. For instance, one might say, "He was running like mad to catch the last bus" to convey the notion of hurriedly and desperately trying to reach a destination.
"Like mad" can also be used to describe an intense feeling or reaction. For example, someone might say, "He fell in love with her like mad," meaning that his love for her was all-consuming and passionate.
The phrase "like mad" is versatile and adaptable, as it can be applied to various contexts to emphasize a strong, energetic, or extreme nature. It is often used informally in conversations or informal writing to add emphasis or excitement to a description, action, or emotion.
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In the manner of a person deprived of reason; to run mad, to act as one who is deprived of reason.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LIKE MAD
- kike mad
- pike mad
- oike mad
- luke mad
- ljke mad
- lkke mad
- loke mad
- l9ke mad
- l8ke mad
- lije mad
- lime mad
- lile mad
- lioe mad
- liie mad
- likw mad
- liks mad
- likd mad
- likr mad
- lik4 mad
- likemad
Etymology of LIKE MAD
The phrase "like mad" is an idiomatic expression used to convey extreme actions or behavior. It combines the word "like", which is used to indicate similarity or comparison, with the word "mad", meaning crazy or insane.
The word "mad" has Old English origins and is derived from the Old English word "gemǣdde", meaning insane or frenzied. Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "madde", maintaining the same meaning. The phrase "like mad" may have originated from expressions such as "run like mad", "work like mad", or "act like mad", which were commonly used in various contexts to emphasize extreme speed, effort, or intensity. The use of "like mad" suggests that the person or action being described is exhibiting the qualities of madness or irrationality.
Idioms with the word LIKE MAD
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tapdance like mad
The idiom "tap dance like mad" typically means to make a strong effort to avoid or manipulate a situation, often involving deceit or evasive actions. It refers to the idea of tap dancing, which requires quick and precise footwork, agility, and improvisation. In this context, it suggests that someone is employing various strategies or tactics to divert attention, avoid blame, or achieve a particular objective, usually in a high-stakes or challenging situation.
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tap dance like mad
The idiom "tap dance like mad" means to make an excessive effort to avoid or divert attention from an embarrassing or difficult situation. It refers to the act of using charm, persuasion, or distraction to divert attention away from a problem or to cover up one's mistakes. The phrase implies someone engaging in frenetic or extravagant behavior in order to avoid or downplay the issue at hand.
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like mad
"Like mad" is an idiomatic expression that means to do something with a great amount of intensity, enthusiasm, or urgency. It can also refer to doing something very quickly or frantically.
Similar spelling words for LIKE MAD
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