A maniacal person is someone whose behavior is extreme, violent, or very determined, often appearing as if they are insane.
Understanding Maniacal Behavior
Based on the definition of the adjective 'maniacal', when this term is used to describe a person, it refers to their actions or mannerisms. This type of behavior is characterized by:
- Extremity: Going beyond normal limits or expectations.
- Violence: Potentially involving physical force or intense aggression.
- Intense Determination: A driven, sometimes obsessive, focus on achieving a goal.
As the reference notes, describing someone's behavior as maniacal often carries disapproval. It suggests that the actions are not just unusual but potentially disturbing or unsettling due to their intensity and perceived irrationality.
Characteristics of Maniacal Behavior
- Exhibits actions that are notably extreme or unrestrained.
- May display violent tendencies or intense aggression.
- Shows very determined pursuit of goals, sometimes to an excessive degree.
- Their actions can create the impression that the person is insane or out of control.
- The term is typically used in a disapproving manner.
Examples in Use
The reference provides examples illustrating maniacal behavior:
- "He was almost maniacal in his pursuit of sporting records." - This highlights the extreme determination aspect.
- "She is hunched forward over the wheel with a maniacal expression." - This suggests an extreme or wild appearance, implying a state of intense, possibly uncontrolled emotion or focus.
In essence, a person described as maniacal is exhibiting behavior that is far outside the norm, driven by extreme intensity, and often viewed negatively because it gives the impression of a loss of rational control.
