Manically

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a manner characterized by extreme excitement, energy, or frenzy typical of mania
2. Done with uncontrollable enthusiasm, intense agitation, or compulsive activity
3. Acting with rapid, wild, or hyperactive behavior associated with manic states

Etymology: "Manically" is simply "manic" with the adverbial ending "-ally" added. The adjective "manic" came into English from Greek "manikos," meaning "mad" or "raving," which in turn comes from "mainesthai," to be mad or frenzied. The ancient Greek word belongs to a family of terms for madness and inspired frenzy, the same root that gave us "mania." The "-ally" ending descends from Old English "-lice," the suffix that turned adjectives into adverbs, as in "quickly" or "wisely." It passed through Middle English "-ly" and later "-ally," which English uses after adjectives ending in "-ic." So "manically" is a straightforward combination of an inherited adverb ending and a Greek-derived adjective.

Synonyms: frantically, frenziedly, crazily, hysterically, wildly

Antonyms: calmly, serenely, peacefully, tranquilly, composedly