derange

[ dih-reynj ]

verb (used with object)

, de·ranged, de·rang·ing.

1. to throw into disorder; disarrange.
2. to disturb the condition, action, or function of.
3. to make insane.

derange

/ dɪˈreɪndʒ /

verb

1. to disturb the order or arrangement of; throw into disorder; disarrange
2. to disturb the action or operation of
3. to make insane; drive mad

Other Words From

• de·rangea·ble adjective
• de·ranger noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of derange¹

1770–80; < French déranger, Old French desrengier, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + rengier; range

Word History and Origins

Origin of derange¹

C18: from Old French desrengier, from des- dis- ¹+ reng row, order

Example Sentences

Only liberals are interested in listening to this "tone it down" advice, but when your opposition is coming at you with the fury of a deranged chimpanzee, turning the other cheek only gets you killed.

From Salon

He acted deranged and demented on the campaign trail and it changed nothing.

From Salon

The worst part is that Trump, in all his deranged misery, is still better off than the foolish fans who use him as a role model.

From Salon

“I would just like to say to my Republican friends that it’s not deranged to fear this, it’s not deranged to find this alarming,” he added.

From Salon

“I can’t believe I got to do this with all of you. We made something weird, dark, hilarious, deranged, and absolutely tragic — something entirely human.”

From BBC

Related Words

• disconcert
• disorganize
• perplex
• unbalance