haywire
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈheɪˌwaɪər//
KK: /ˈheɪˌwaɪər/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is not working correctly or is out of control; it can also refer to someone who is acting in a confused or crazy manner.
Example
After the power outage, the computer went haywire and lost all my files.
Conversation
Did you see how the computer went haywire during the presentation?
Yeah, it was so embarrassing!
I know, right? Everything just started acting haywire all of a sudden.
Let's hope it doesn't happen again next time!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
erratic
crazy
unruly
Antonyms
stable
calm
orderly
adverb
Definition
In a state of disorder or confusion, often used to describe something that is not functioning properly.
Example
When the computer started acting haywire, I knew I had to restart it.
Conversation
I can't believe how my day went completely haywire at work.
What happened? You seem really stressed about it.
Everything just got out of control, and I lost track of time.
noun
Definition
A type of wire that is used to tie bales of hay together.
Example
The farmer used haywire to secure the bales in the field.
Conversation
Did you see how the farmer used the haywire to tie up the bales?
Yeah, it looked really efficient and sturdy.
I didn't know they used haywire for that purpose.
Root Explanation
The word 'haywire' originates from American English, referring to a type of wire used in baling hay. The term suggests something that is out of control or malfunctioning, as haywire was often used to describe the chaotic state of hay bales when the wire broke or became tangled. Thus, 'haywire' means to be in a state of disarray or confusion.
Memory Tip
Imagine a scene where hay bales are tangled and chaotic because of broken wire — this helps you remember that 'haywire' means something is out of control or in disarray.
Visually Confused Words
haire