power-crazed Meaning

Power-crazed

Definition: The term “power-crazed” refers to a person or individuals who are excessively or irrationally obsessed with power or control. This obsession can manifest in behaviors that are aggressive, manipulative, or tyrannical, often leading to reckless decision-making and a disregard for ethical considerations or the well-being of others.

Usage: “Power-crazed” is typically used as an adjective to describe someone’s character or behavior. It can be applied in contexts such as politics, business, or personal relationships to convey that someone is driven by a desire for power to the point of losing touch with reality or moral integrity.

Example Sentence: “The CEO’s power-crazed tactics alienated his employees and led to a high turnover rate.”

Etymology: The term is a compound adjective formed from two parts:

• “Power,” which comes from the Latin word “potere,” meaning “to be able,” and has evolved through Old French and Middle English to indicate the ability or capacity to do something.
• “Crazed,” which is the past participle of “craze,” originating from the Middle English “craf” (meaning to break) and the Old Norse “krasa” (to crash or break). It has come to refer to a state of madness or extreme enthusiasm.

The combination of these two elements suggests a state of irrationality associated with the pursuit of authority or influence.

Pronunciation: /ˈpaʊər ˌkreɪzd/

Synonyms:

• Power-hungry
• Dictatorial
• Authoritarian
• Despotic
• Tyrannical

Antonyms:

• Humble
• Modest
• Equitable
• Altruistic
• Selfless

In conclusion, “power-crazed” denotes an extreme and often destructive preoccupation with gaining and maintaining power, characterized by aggressive and unethical behavior towards others. This term highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the potential for harm when individuals prioritize their own control over collective well-being.