AMUCK Meaning and
Definition
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Amuck, also spelled "amok," is an adjective that describes someone or something indulging in a frenzied, violent, or haphazard behavior. It is often used in phrases like "run amuck" or "go amok" to depict a state of chaos, disorder, or uncontrolled rampage.
When someone goes amuck, it means they behave irrationally or uncontrollably, exhibiting a complete lack of self-restraint and disregarding social norms. It suggests a person who becomes uncontrollably enraged or deranged, unleashing their anger or frustrations in a destructive, aggressive, or harmful manner. This may involve indiscriminate violence or an intense outburst of emotion without considering the consequences or rationale.
Originating from the Malay word "amuk" meaning to attack fiercely and wildly, the term amuck has been assimilated into the English language to convey a sense of unruliness, disarray, or mayhem. It is often associated with unpredictable acts of violence or disruptive actions, even though it can also be metaphorically extended to describe nonviolent situations or phenomena that appear to be out of control or excessively chaotic.
In modern usage, amuck can also be employed figuratively to describe situations where things have gone awry or become unmanageable, such as a plan, a project, or even an economy that has spiraled into disorder or failure. Overall, amuck captures a sense of recklessness, frenzy, or unchecked behavior, making it a powerful descriptor for depicting disturbing or uncontrolled behavior.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AMUCK
- zmuck
- wmuck
- qmuck
- anuck
- akuck
- ajuck
- amyck
- amhck
- amjck
- amick
- am8ck
- am7ck
- amuxk
- amuvk
- amufk
- amudk
- amucj
- amucm
- amucl
Etymology of AMUCK
The word "amuck" is derived from the Malay word "amuk", which means "to go berserk" or "to attack furiously". The term first appeared in English in the early 17th century during the colonial era, as European explorers and traders came into contact with Malay culture. Over time, the term "amuck" evolved to describe a person who goes on a violent or frenzied rampage. Today, it is often used metaphorically to describe someone acting in an unrestrained or uncontrolled manner.
Idioms with the word AMUCK
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go amuck
The idiom "go amuck" means to become uncontrollable, irrational, or to behave in a wild and unpredictable manner.
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run amuck
The idiom "run amuck" (also spelled "run amok") means to behave uncontrollably, disorderly, or wildly, often resulting in chaotic or destructive actions. It refers to a person or thing going out of control, causing mayhem or wreaking havoc without any restraint or consideration for consequences.
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run amok (amuck)
To behave wildly or out of control; to go berserk or rampage.
Similar spelling words for AMUCK
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