What does frantic mean Meaning and Definition
What does frantic mean
Pronunciation
/frænˈtɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective or Adverb
Definition
To feel or display a strong, especially uncontrolled, sense of fear, anxiety, or panic; to be or become extremely agitated, upset, or distressed.
Etymology
The word “frantic” comes from the Latin “franticus,” meaning “wandering” or “mad,” and is related to the verb “frangere,” meaning “to break” or “to shatter.” In the 14th century, the term referred to someone who was driven to madness or distraction by extreme fear or anxiety.
Usage Notes
Frantic can be used as an adjective to describe someone’s state of mind, such as “She became frantic with worry when her child went missing.” It can also be used as an adverb to describe the manner in which something is done, such as “He rushed into the room, frantic to find his keys.”
Cultural References
In popular culture, frantic has been referenced in various forms of media, including films, TV shows, and music. For example, the 1997 film “L.A. Confidential” features a character who becomes frantic in a intense scene, and the song “Frantic” by Green Day critiques the frantic pace of modern life.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Frantically searching for something: to search for something in a desperate or hasty manner
- Frantically trying: to try something with a lot of energy or enthusiasm
Related Words or Phrases
- Panic
- Agitated
- Distraught
- Flustered
Collocations
- Frantically searching for
- Frantically trying
Frequency of Use
Frantic is a relatively common adjective or adverb, often used in everyday conversations, journalism, and creative writing.
Common Misspellings
- Franctic
- Franctis