amok etymology

Etymology:

  • Malay meng-âmok ("to attack or run with great fury")
  • Ultimately from Proto-Austronesian *ma-qamuk ("to do something fiercely")

Meaning:

  • A sudden, violent outburst of rage or frenzy, typically accompanied by indiscriminate and uncontrolled killing.
  • A state of uncontrolled violence or excitement.

Origin:

The term "amok" is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, where it was used to describe a condition of homicidal frenzy that sometimes afflicted men. The Malay word meng-âmok was first recorded in the 16th century and is thought to have derived from the Proto-Austronesian word *ma-qamuk, which means "to do something fiercely."

In the 19th century, the term "amok" was adopted by Western languages and became more widely known. It was often used to describe similar conditions of violent frenzy in other parts of the world, including the Caribbean and South Asia.

Psychological Perspective:

In psychology, "amok" is sometimes used to refer to a state of intense emotional arousal and disinhibition that can lead to violent behavior. This state is often characterized by a sense of dissociation, where the individual feels detached from their own actions.

Current Usage:

The term "amok" is still used today to describe incidents of sudden and severe violence, particularly those involving multiple victims. However, it is important to note that this term is not a clinical diagnosis and should not be used to stigmatize individuals experiencing mental health issues.

amok relate terms

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