Definition

1. Adjective (Predicative): Informal or slang term meaning mentally irregular, insane, or crazy. This expression describes someone whose behavior or thinking is considered extremely irrational, eccentric, or out of touch with reality.

Usage

• This phrase is exclusively used in informal, colloquial contexts. It is considered slang and can be humorous, derogatory, or descriptive depending on tone and context.
• It functions as a predicative adjective, meaning it typically comes after a linking verb like "be," "go," or "drive."
• It is a fixed idiom; the words are not used in their literal sense.

Examples

• "After the third day without sleep, I thought I was going round the bend."
• "The constant noise from the construction site is driving me round the bend!"
• "Some of his conspiracy theories make him sound completely round the bend."

Advanced Usage

• "to drive someone round the bend": A common construction meaning to irritate or frustrate someone to the point of madness.
  • Example: "Her constant complaining drives her colleagues round the bend."

Variants and Related Words

• Round the twist: A very similar British slang idiom with the same meaning.
  • Example: "He's gone completely round the twist."
• Barmy (adj.): Another informal British term for crazy or foolish.
• Balmy (adj.): An alternative spelling of "barmy" with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Crazy
• Insane
• Mad
• Bonkers (informal)
• Loony (informal)

Related Idioms

• Off one's rocker: Another informal idiom meaning crazy or insane.
• Out to lunch: Slang implying someone is not thinking clearly or is detached from reality.
• Not playing with a full deck: A humorous idiom suggesting someone lacks intelligence or sanity.

Adjective

1. informal or slang terms for mentally irregular
   • it used to drive my husband balmy