The phrase "run wild" is commonly spelled with the phonetic transcription /rʌn waɪld/. The "r" sound is pronounced with the tongue curled in the back of the mouth, while the "ʌ" sound is a short and open vowel sound. The "n" sound is pronounced by touching the tip of the tongue to the roof of the mouth, followed by a "w" sound pronounced with rounded lips. Finally, the "aɪ" sound is a diphthong, composed of a long "a" sound followed by a short "i" sound. The word "wild" is pronounced with a silent "d" at the end.
The phrase "run wild" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or scenario in which something or someone becomes uncontrolled or disorderly. It is often used metaphorically to convey a lack of restraint or discipline in various contexts.
When something or someone "runs wild," it means that they have escaped the boundaries of normal control, leading to a state of chaos or unruliness. This could refer to the behavior of a group of people, animals, or even inanimate objects. For example, a crowd that runs wild is uncontrollable, behaving in a disorderly and destructive manner. Similarly, a child who runs wild is not being properly disciplined or supervised, resulting in disruptive or unruly behavior.
The expression can also be used to describe the unchecked growth or proliferation of something, as in vegetation or natural processes. In this context, "running wild" suggests a lack of control or containment. For instance, a garden overrun by weeds can be said to have the weeds running wild.
Overall, the phrase "run wild" reflects a state of unbridled energy or rebellion, typically characterized by a lack of discipline, order, or supervision. It signifies a departure from the expected or desired norms, often leading to chaos, disorder, or an uncontrolled situation.
The phrase "run wild" originates from Old English and has been used in English since the 14th century. The word "run" comes from the Old English word "rinnan", meaning "to flow, to move swiftly". "Wild" comes from the Old English word "wilde", which means "not domesticated, untamed". When combined, "run wild" describes a situation where something or someone is not being controlled, restrained, or confined by rules or restrictions and is behaving freely or chaotically.