Frantic

Adjective

Definition: Wildly excited or panicked; frenzied.

Synonyms: Frantic, Frenzied, Agitated, Frenetic, Wild

Antonyms: Calm, Composed, Serene

Examples:

She was frantic with worry when her child went missing.
The rescue team made frantic efforts to locate the lost hikers.

Mnemonics:

Think of a situation where someone is rushing around in a state of panic, as if they are frantically trying to find something.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "frantic" originated from the Middle English word "frentik" which meant "insane". It can be traced back to the Old French word "frentique" and the Latin word "phreneticus", both of which meant "mad" or "insane".

Historical Usage:

"Frantic" has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a state of extreme agitation or mental disturbance.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Frantic search"

Explanation:

Refers to an intense and desperate search conducted in a frantic manner, often in situations where time is of the essence.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "frantic" interchangeably with "excited" without the component of anxiety or panic.

Explanation:

While "frantic" can sometimes be associated with excitement, it specifically implies a state of anxiety or panic alongside the excitement. Without the element of distress or frenzy, the word "excited" would be more appropriate.