derange

[dih-reynj]

verb (used with object)

deranged, deranging 

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 Word Forms

• derangeable adjective
• deranger 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

“Some of our detractors have been left in a kind of deranged and self-destructive befuddlement.”

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Any prosecutor investigating him is “deranged” or “corrupt.”

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Adam Smith’s invisible hand has developed a deranged sense of humor.

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The president has long railed against judges who rule against him, calling them “monsters,” “deranged,” and “radical” at various points in the past.

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“In England, we just see this deranged hypocrisy continue to lord over our political landscape,” he adds.

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Related Words

• disconcert 
• disorganize 
• perplex 
• unbalance