Definition

A state of being mentally ill or extremely foolish; a condition that can relieve someone of legal responsibility for their actions.

Example

The judge ruled that the defendant's actions were a result of insanity, and he was not held criminally responsible.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new game?

Yeah, it sounds like pure insanity to me!

I know, right? I can't believe people are actually playing it.

It's wild! Sometimes I wonder if it's just a bit too much insanity for fun.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insanity is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "sanus" (meaning healthy or sound). The word describes a state of being not healthy or sound, particularly in a mental context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being 'healthy' ('sanus') to remember that insanity refers to a state of mental unhealthiness.

Visually Confused Words