frenzy
UK[ˈfren.zi]US[ˈfren.zi]
n
a state of uncontrolled excitement or wild behavior.
n
a temporary period of uncontrolled or extreme emotion or activity.
Etymology
the word 'frenzy' entered english in the 14th century from the old french 'frenesie', which itself derived from the latin 'phrenesis'. this latin term originated from the greek 'phrēn', meaning 'mind' or 'diaphragm', which was historically thought to be the seat of emotion and intellect. the greek word 'phrenitis' denoted inflammation of the brain, leading to madness. thus, the etymological journey traces a path from a physical organ associated with thought, through a medical condition, to its modern abstract sense describing a state of wild, irrational excitement or mental agitation.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form; it does not break into meaningful, independent morphemes in modern english.
Examples
the announcement sent the crowd into a frenzy of excitement.
in a cleaning frenzy, she organized the entire house in one afternoon.
the stock market was in a frenzy during the volatile trading session.