bedlamite (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Noun

Phonetic Transcription

• /ˈbɛd.lə.maɪt/

Meaning and Usage

• Meaning: The term "bedlamite" historically refers to an inmate of a lunatic asylum, particularly one associated with the infamous Bedlam Hospital in London. It is now considered archaic and can be used informally to mean someone who behaves in a crazy or wildly irrational manner.
• Usage: "Bedlamite" is not commonly used in contemporary English, appearing more often in historical or literary contexts. It is infrequently encountered in modern oral and written discourse, with most references being historical or figurative.

Example Sentences

1. Original: The streets were filled with bedlamites, creating a scene of utter chaos.
   Translation: Улицы были заполнены безумцами, создавая сцену полного хаоса.

2. Original: He was called a bedlamite due to his unpredictable behavior in public.
   Translation: Его назвали безумцем из-за его непредсказуемого поведения на публике.

3. Original: The old tales spoke of bedlamites wandering the halls of the ancient asylum.
   Translation: Старые сказания говорили о безумцах, бродящих по коридорам древнего приюта.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "bedlamite" is not typically found in idiomatic expressions, it can appear in expressions relating to madness or chaos. Here are a few relevant examples:

1. Original: The meeting turned into a bedlamite affair, with everyone shouting over each other.
   Translation: Собрание превратилось в безумное событие, все кричали друг на друга.

2. Original: When the news broke, it was a bedlamite scene outside the office.
   Translation: Когда новость распространилась, на улице у офиса была безумная сцена.

3. Original: In the bedlamite rush for tickets, many were pushed aside.
   Translation: В безумной спешке за билетами многие оказались оттолкнуты в сторону.

4. Original: The bedlamite behavior of the crowd made security worry.
   Translation: Безумное поведение толпы заставило охрану волноваться.

Etymology

• The term "bedlamite" derives from "Bedlam," a name historically used for the Bethlem Royal Hospital in London, one of the world's oldest psychiatric hospitals, founded in the 13th century. The name "Bedlam" became synonymous with madness, and hence those who were confined there were referred to as "bedlamites."

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: lunatic, madman, crazy person, maniac, wild one (archaic).
• Antonyms: sane person, rational individual, level-headed person.

Conclusion

The word "bedlamite" carries historical significance and reflects past attitudes towards mental health. While it is rarely used in modern conversation, it offers insight into the social and cultural perspectives of its time. Its associations with madness and chaos have allowed it to persist in literary usage.