Vocabulary Spotlight
Delirium
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: An acutely disturbed state of mind characterized by confusion, disorientation, and incoherence, often caused by illness or intoxication.
“The patient’s delirium was a result of the high fever and dehydration.”
Pronunciation
[dih-leer-ee-uhm]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Hysteria
Frenzy
Disorientation
Agitation
Antonyms
Sanity
Calmness
Composure
Balance
Related Words
Deliriously (adverb)
Word Origin
“Delirium” derives from the Latin “delirare,” meaning “to go off the furrow,” indicating a disturbed mental state. It was originally used to describe confusion in those with fever or other ailments.
Word Family
Adjective: Delirious – Experiencing delirium or extreme excitement.
Adverb: Deliriously – In a state of delirium or extreme excitement.
Mnemonics
Think of “delirium” as “dizzy with confusion” – a mental state of disorientation and agitation.
Industry-specific Usage
Medicine
In medicine, delirium is a serious condition affecting cognition and awareness, often seen in ICU or elderly patients.
Psychiatry
Psychiatrists evaluate delirium in mental health assessments, as it can signal underlying neurological or psychological issues.
Sports
Fans may experience a kind of “delirium” from excitement after a big win, manifesting in joyful confusion and exhilaration.
In Context
Delirium is used medically to describe a confused mental state, but also figuratively to describe overwhelming joy or chaotic excitement, often seen in contexts like celebrations or intense events.