Vocabulary Spotlight

Delirious

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: In an extremely disturbed or incoherent state due to illness or excitement; wildly enthusiastic or ecstatic.

“The fans were delirious with joy when their team won the championship.”

Pronunciation

[dih-leer-ee-uhs]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Ecstatic
Overjoyed
Frenzied
Hysterical
Unhinged

Antonyms

Calm
Sane
Balanced
Composed
Collected

Related Words

Delirium (noun)
Deliriously (adverb)

Word Origin

“Delirious” comes from the Latin “delirium,” meaning “to be crazy” or “to rave,” originally referring to a feverish or disturbed state of mind.

Word Family

Noun: Delirium – An acutely disturbed state of mind.

Adverb: Deliriously – In a manner that shows extreme excitement or agitation.

Mnemonics

Remember “delirious” by thinking “dizzy with excitement” – a state of extreme joy or confusion.

Industry-specific Usage

Medical

In medicine, delirious refers to a confused state often caused by fever, infection, or medication.

Sports

Fans may become delirious with joy after a major victory, celebrating wildly.

Entertainment

Audience members may be described as delirious when showing overwhelming enthusiasm at a performance.

In Context

Delirious can describe extreme joy or confusion, such as in sports victories, major celebrations, or intense medical conditions. It signifies heightened emotional states, from excitement to disorientation.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is the antonym of “Delirious”?

Hysterical
Calm
Ecstatic
Frenzied

‘Calm’ is correct, indicating a balanced and composed state.

2. Fill in the blank: After winning the game, the crowd was _______ with excitement.

delirious
composed
balanced
calm

‘Delirious’ is correct as it suggests wild excitement.

3. Which situation would make someone delirious?

Reading a quiet book
Listening to soft music
Winning a lottery
Having a calm discussion

‘Winning a lottery’ is correct as it can cause extreme excitement.