Pronunciation: [mɐnˈa͡ɪ͡əkə͡l] (IPA) 
"Maniacal" is a term used to describe someone who is crazed, insane, or overly obsessed with something. The pronunciation of this word is "muh-nahy-uh-kuhl" according to the IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky as it includes various vowel sounds, such as the "i" sound being pronounced as "ahy." However, once you become familiar with its pronunciation, spelling "maniacal" becomes much easier.
Maniacal is an adjective, derived from the noun "maniac," and refers to the state of being intensely or excessively obsessed, fanatical, or mentally deranged, especially in regards to one's behavior, thoughts, or actions. It is typically used to describe someone who exhibits wild and uncontrollable fervor, enthusiasm, or excitement, often to an unhealthy and irrational degree.
A person who is described as maniacal can exhibit exaggerated and erratic behavior that may appear irrational or mad, often losing touch with reality. Their actions can be impulsive, unpredictable, and lacking reason or common sense. Additionally, they frequently exhibit high levels of energy and demonstrate obsessive behavior towards a particular activity or subject matter, often to the detriment of their own well-being or the safety of others.
The term "maniacal" is often associated with negative connotations, as it is used to characterize individuals who are driven by obsession, infatuation, or compulsion, leading them to act in reckless or dangerous manners. However, it is important to note that the term can be used figuratively as well, to describe intense enthusiasm or passion in a non-harmful or non-threatening context, such as someone being described as a "maniacal fan" of a particular sports team or band.
In summary, maniacal relates to extreme obsession or madness, typically manifesting in erratic and irrational behavior, often to an unhealthy or dangerous extent.
Relating to or characterized by mania; wild, furious.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Affected with madness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "maniacal" is derived from the noun "maniac", which originates from the Greek word "manías" (μανίας). "Manías" referred to a frenzy or madness, particularly of a supernatural origin. This Greek term further traces back to the verb "mainomai" (μαίνομαι), meaning "to rage, be furious". The term "maniacal" entered the English language in the early 17th century, initially used to describe someone who is affected by mania or displaying symptoms of wild, uncontrollable behavior. Over time, its usage expanded to include a broader sense of extreme excitement, obsession, or irrational behavior.
