How Do You Spell MAD AS A HORNET?

Pronunciation: [mˈad az ɐ hˈɔːnɪt] (IPA)

"Mad as a hornet" is a phrase used to describe someone who is very angry or upset. The pronunciation of "hornet" is /ˈhɔːrnət/, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of this word is influenced by its origin, the Old English word hyrnete which refers to a type of wasp. The addition of the "h" is likely due to confusion with the similar-sounding word "horn", which also has a sting. Therefore, despite its unconventional spelling, "mad as a hornet" has become a commonly used phrase.

MAD AS A HORNET Meaning and Definition

  1. "Mad as a hornet" is an idiomatic expression used to describe extreme anger, agitation, or fury in a person's behavior or demeanor. Similar to being "angry as a wasp," this phrase vividly portrays the intensity and volatile nature of someone's emotions or actions.

    The adjective "mad" in this context implies irrational anger, often signifying a loss of control or an overwhelming surge of fury. This phrase draws a parallel between the emotional state of an angry person and an actual hornet, a venomous insect with a notorious reputation for aggression and quick-tempered behavior. Just as a hornet responds ferociously when provoked, a person described as "mad as a hornet" displays a similar level of passionate rage, which can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

    The use of this phrase typically conveys a sense of urgency or severity, emphasizing that the person's anger is intense and potentially explosive. It suggests that the individual has been pushed to their emotional limits, reaching a level of anger that is both irrational and uncontrollable. The comparison to a hornet serves to enhance the visual representation of the person's emotional state, emphasizing the unmistakable intensity of their anger.

Common Misspellings for MAD AS A HORNET

  • nad as a hornet
  • kad as a hornet
  • jad as a hornet
  • mzd as a hornet
  • msd as a hornet
  • mwd as a hornet
  • mqd as a hornet
  • mas as a hornet
  • max as a hornet
  • mac as a hornet
  • maf as a hornet
  • mar as a hornet
  • mae as a hornet
  • mad zs a hornet
  • mad ss a hornet
  • mad ws a hornet
  • mad qs a hornet
  • mad aa a hornet
  • mad az a hornet
  • mad ax a hornet

Idioms with the word MAD AS A HORNET

  • be as mad as a hornet To be extremely angry or furious.
  • (as) mad as a hornet The idiom "as mad as a hornet" means extremely angry or enraged; in a state of intense fury.
  • mad as a hornet To be extremely angry or upset.