The idiom "drove bananas" refers to a situation where someone becomes extremely frustrated, agitated, or angry due to a particular event or circumstance, leading them to lose control over their emotions. The phrase is used metaphorically to describe a state when a person's behavior or mood resembles that of a bunch of bananas, which are commonly associated with being chaotic or wild.
The origin of this idiom can be traced to the erratic and unpredictable behavior of monkeys in a group when they are given bananas. When these fruits are offered to the monkeys, they often become frenzied, displaying irrational actions such as screaming, jumping, and throwing objects. Thus, the phrase "drove bananas" emerged colloquially to represent someone who is in a state of extreme irrationality or emotional instability.
When an individual is said to "drive bananas," it implies that they have reached a breaking point, causing a loss of composure or control over their emotions. This could stem from various factors, such as intense stress, frustration, or feeling overwhelmed by a particular situation. The person in question might exhibit unusual or exaggerated behavior, which is characteristic of someone who has been overwhelmed by their emotions, resembling the chaotic and energetic reaction of monkeys when they are given bananas.
In summary, "drove bananas" is an idiomatic expression used to depict a state of extreme frustration or agitation where an individual loses control over their emotions, often resulting in erratic or irrational behavior.
