Idioms are a fun way to spice up language, and one particularly whimsical expression is “(as) mad as a March hare.” This quirky phrase is often used to describe someone who is acting crazy, irrational, or wildly eccentric. It has its roots in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, where the character of the March Hare became a symbol of erratic and nonsensical behavior. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and usage of “mad as a March hare,” along with examples to help you understand and use this colorful expression.
Meaning of “(as) mad as a March hare”
The idiom “(as) mad as a March hare” means crazy, eccentric, or irrational. It is often used to describe someone who is acting in a bizarre, unpredictable, or even nonsensical manner.
Definition of “(as) mad as a March hare”
- Mad: In this context, “mad” refers to being irrational, crazy, or eccentric.
- March Hare: A hare (rabbit) that exhibits erratic behavior in March, traditionally associated with the start of spring when animals begin to behave in unusual ways.
When someone is described as “mad as a March hare,” they are often seen as acting in an exaggerated, unpredictable, or strange manner.
Examples of “(as) mad as a March hare” in sentences
Sally is getting as mad as a March hare—she’s been talking non-stop and jumping from one idea to another.
My Uncle Bill is mad as a March hare—he keeps making the strangest decisions.
Ever since Tim started his new job, he’s been acting as mad as a March hare, staying up late and coming up with wild ideas.
Origin of “(as) mad as a March hare”
The phrase “mad as a March hare” comes from the behavior of hares, particularly during March. In early spring, male hares engage in a bizarre and energetic courtship ritual that includes jumping, chasing, and fighting, which likely appeared erratic and “mad” to onlookers.
The idiom was popularized by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865), where the character of the March Hare embodies this strange, erratic behavior. Carroll’s portrayal of the character, along with the earlier references to March hares’ peculiar behavior, helped solidify the expression in the English language.
Synonyms for “(as) mad as a March hare”
Here are some other ways to express that someone is acting irrational or eccentric:
- As mad as a hatter
- Off one’s rocker
- Out of one’s mind
- Not all there
- Gone bananas
- Cuckoo
How to use “(as) mad as a March hare”
This idiom is perfect for describing someone who is acting in an unusually wild or silly way, often without any logical reason.
Describing crazy behavior:
“Sally’s been as mad as a March hare lately, trying to organize everyone’s schedules in the most complicated way possible.”
“Uncle Joe’s been mad as a March hare—he keeps changing his plans every hour!”
In humor:
“John was as mad as a March hare when he started inventing new ways to save time in the kitchen.”
