How Do You Spell BASKET CASE?

Pronunciation: [bˈaskɪt kˈe͡ɪs] (IPA)

The phrase "basket case" is used to describe a person who is emotionally or mentally unstable. Despite its negative connotations, the term is commonly used in everyday language. The spelling of "basket case" is straightforward, with the emphasis on the first syllable "-BAS-" and the "e" in "basket" pronounced as "eh". The word "case" is pronounced with a soft "s" and emphasis on the second syllable "-kayss". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is written as /ˈbæskɪt keɪs/

BASKET CASE Meaning and Definition

1. The term "basket case" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe a person or thing that is completely hopeless, dysfunctional, or in a state of extreme disorder or incompetence. It refers to an individual or object that is in such a dire condition that it is figuratively likened to a basket full of items that have fallen apart or are beyond repair. The term is often used colloquially and informally.

   One possible explanation for the origin of the phrase comes from the early 20th century, during World War I. It is said to have been used to describe soldiers who had lost all four limbs and required transportation in a basket. These soldiers were considered to be physically and mentally broken, hence the term "basket case" evolved to refer to anyone who is unable to function or cope with everyday life.

   This expression is frequently used to describe people who are overwhelmed, emotionally unstable, or coping with various mental or physical challenges. It can also be used to describe an organization or company that is in disarray, financially distressed, or facing imminent collapse.

   Despite its negative connotations, the term can also be used in a lighter, more humorous context to describe someone who is clumsy, forgetful, or consistently fails at tasks. Overall, the term "basket case" encapsulates the idea of a hopeless or utterly dysfunctional individual, situation, or object.

Common Misspellings for BASKET CASE

• vasket case
• nasket case
• hasket case
• gasket case
• bzsket case
• bssket case
• bwsket case
• bqsket case
• baaket case
• bazket case
• baxket case
• badket case
• baeket case
• bawket case
• basjet case
• basmet case
• baslet case
• basoet case
• basiet case
• baskwt case

Etymology of BASKET CASE

The term "basket case" originated during World War I and was initially used in a medical context. It referred to soldiers who had lost all four limbs (arms and legs), rendering them helpless and unable to care for themselves. These soldiers were often carried around in a basket or stretcher, hence the term "basket case". Over time, the term's meaning expanded beyond its medical sense to describe someone who is mentally or physically unable to function properly.

Idioms with the word BASKET CASE

• a basket case The idiom "a basket case" refers to a person or thing that is extremely ineffective, powerless, or unable to function properly, usually due to physical or emotional reasons. It can also be used to describe something that is disorganized, chaotic, or unstable.
• basket case A "basket case" is a person or thing that is out of control or extremely nervous, anxious, or paranoid, often to the point of being unable to function.

Plural form of BASKET CASE is BASKET CASES