Noun
/deˈmente/
The term "demente" refers primarily to a mental condition characterized by a decline in cognitive function, particularly affecting memory, reasoning, and social abilities. In a broader context, it can also be used informally to describe someone who is acting irrationally or behaves in a wildly eccentric manner.
In Spanish, it is used frequently in both oral and written contexts, especially in medical discussions or conversations related to mental health. The word "demente" often appears more in formal settings, such as medical documentation, but can also pop up in casual conversations when discussing someone's mental state or behavior.
The patient was diagnosed as demented at an early age.
A veces, las personas dicen cosas que parecen demente cuando están bajo estrés.
Sometimes, people say things that seem insane when they are under stress.
Es importante entender los síntomas de una persona demente para ofrecer el cuidado adecuado.
While "demente" itself is not the basis for many idiomatic expressions, it can appear in colloquial phrases that reflect irrational or chaotic behavior.
You are crazy about that new movie!
Hacer algo demente – To do something insane or irrational.
Doing something insane like that doesn't make sense.
Demente total – Totally crazy.
The party was a total craziness with music and lights.
Pensar de manera demente – To think in an irrational way.
The word "demente" originates from Latin "dementem," which is the accusative singular of "dementis," derived from "de-" meaning "down" or "away" and "mens," meaning "mind." Thus, it literally translates to "out of one's mind."
Synonyms: - Locura (madness) - Insensatez (foolishness) - Demencia (dementia)
Antonyms: - Sano (sane) - Racional (rational) - Sensato (sensible)