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berserk

Berserk (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/bə(ː)ˈzəːk/

What does berserk mean?

Uncontrolled, violent, and frenzied behavior, often driven by extreme anger, madness, or irrationality.
"She went berserk when she found out her flight was canceled."

Detailed Meaning of Berserk

When a person goes berserk, they lose all self-control and act in an impulsive and chaotic manner, often posing a danger to themselves and those around them. This term has its origins in Norse mythology, where berserkers were legendary warriors known for their reckless and uncontrollable fighting style. Today, "berserk" is used to describe any situation or individual exhibiting wild and irrational behavior that is far beyond what is considered normal or socially acceptable. It conveys the idea of a complete breakdown in rationality and self-restraint, often with dangerous consequences.

Example Sentences for Berserk

1. The wild animal went berserk and charged at the zookeeper.
2. The crowd went berserk when their favorite band took the stage.
3. His sudden outburst left everyone in the room feeling berserk.
4. The storm's fury caused the waves to go berserk, crashing against the shore.
5. The malfunctioning robot started moving in a berserk manner, creating chaos.
6. After a week of nonstop work, he felt like he was going berserk.

Origin and Etymology of Berserk

The term 'berserk' has a fascinating etymology rooted in Old Norse and Old English. It can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'berserkr,' which referred to a warrior who fought with frenzied and uncontrollable behavior, often in a trance-like state. These berserkers were known for their wild and violent tactics in battle. The word 'berserkr' is thought to be derived from the Old Norse elements 'ber' (meaning 'bear') and 'serkr' (meaning 'shirt' or 'coat'). This suggests that these warriors may have worn bear skins or coats to enhance their fearsome appearance and combat prowess. Over time, the term 'berserk' came to describe any uncontrolled, violent, and frenzied behavior, often driven by extreme anger, madness, or irrationality, and it has retained this meaning in the English language today.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective berserk:

collected

frenzied

calm

controlled

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Berserk

1. The software glitch made the computer's cursor go berserk on the screen.
2. The berserk wind tore branches from the trees during the storm.
3. The berserk character in the video game was nearly invincible.
4. His temper got the best of him, and he acted berserk in the argument.
5. The protagonist's berserk rage led to a dramatic turning point in the story.
6. The berserk laughter of the clown sent shivers down the audience's spine.
7. The news of the sudden layoffs had everyone at the office feeling berserk.
8. The carnival ride spun the passengers around, making them feel berserk.
9. The berserk fire spread rapidly through the dry forest.
10. The child's tantrum took a berserk turn as toys were thrown around.
11. The warrior went berserk on the battlefield, fighting with unmatched ferocity.
12. The berserk energy of the dance performance captivated the audience.
13. The haunted house's special effects made visitors feel like they were in a berserk nightmare.
14. The berserk adventure of the road trip led to unforgettable memories.