snake pit

Or snakepit

noun

Informal.

1. a mental hospital marked by squalor and inhumane or indifferent care for the patients.

2. an intensely chaotic or disagreeable place or situation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of snake pit¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

The pitch became a snake pit, there was tension between the teams after the Saturday evening handbags and the Lord's atmosphere was sizzling.

From BBC

On the snake pit of a pitch and against the unerring Pakistan bowlers, England’s best chance was to attack, an intent that played into the hands of Noman.

From BBC

We hurry into the tunnel and not a second too soon—the bridge gives way into the snake pit.

From Literature

That thrilled Largent, who noted that Mile High Stadium in Denver was “a snake pit to play in” because of their rabid fans.

From Seattle Times

Before plunging into the snake pit, let’s turn to some passages that will be fodder for future historians.

From Washington Post