What is the origin of word mad?

The word "mad" has a fascinating history, with its roots tracing back to Old English and beyond.

Here's a breakdown of its journey:

* Old English: The word "mad" originated from the Old English word "mæd" or "mædd", which meant "angry, furious, insane."

* Proto-Germanic: This Old English word itself came from the Proto-Germanic word "*madjaz", which had a similar meaning.

* Proto-Indo-European: The journey continues further back to the Proto-Indo-European word "*med-/*medh-", meaning "to measure, to be in control." This seems counterintuitive to the meaning of "mad," but it highlights the connection between losing control and not being able to measure or understand.

Over time, the meaning of "mad" shifted. It evolved to encompass not only anger and fury but also insanity, foolishness, and even a sense of enthusiasm.

Interestingly, the word "mad" also gave rise to other words in English:

* "Maddening": Meaning "to drive to madness" or "to make intensely irritating."

* "Madman": A person who is insane.

* "Madhouse": A mental asylum.

So, while "mad" might seem like a simple word, its journey through history reveals a complex evolution of meaning, showcasing the dynamism of language and how it reflects our understanding of the world.