mad-dog

verb (used with object)

mad-dogged, mad-dogging 

1. Slang.,  to glare at threateningly.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mad-dog¹

An Americanism dating back to 1985–90

Example Sentences

Hurley’s mad-dog histrionics on the sideline will drive him nuts, alienate refs and cause his players to shake their heads.

From Los Angeles Times

Think of Jets and Sharks decked out in buckskins or Yankee blue, ambling down our grubby streets, swapping mad-dog stares or whistling a few bars of those taunting tunes — pushing, egging, daring someone to start something.

From Los Angeles Times

When ignorance mixes with mad-dog hatred the results are combustible.

From Salon

The mad-dog greed of corporate America, the finance industry, and the "too big to fail" banks coupled with nonsensical free-market fundamentalism to initiate a bipartisan deregulatory agenda and the slashing of social services.

From Salon

Ethan’s face relaxes, his eyes soften, like he has lost his mad-dog bead of concentration.

From Literature

Related Words

• crazed 
• delirious 
• enthusiastic 
• fanatical 
• fervent 
• frenzied 
• furious 
• virulent 
• zealous