The phrase "freak out" originated in the mid-20th century, likely from the verb "freak," meaning "to startle or frighten suddenly," which itself derives from the Middle Dutch word "vreken," meaning "to fear."
"Freak out" means to become extremely upset, agitated, or panicked. It often refers to an emotional outburst or reaction characterized by irrational behavior or extreme anxiety.
The phrase "freak out" emerged during the counterculture movement of the 1960s, particularly among drug users. It was used to describe the intense psychological and physiological effects of certain psychedelic drugs, such as LSD.
As the counterculture spread, the phrase "freak out" gained wider usage to refer to any intense emotional experience, regardless of its cause. It became a slang term used by both drug users and non-users alike.
Over time, the phrase has evolved to include a broader range of meanings, including:
