The phrase "runs wild" refers to a situation in which someone or something is not under control and is acting freely or without restraint. The word "runs" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription of /rʌnz/, which indicates that the vowel sound is a schwa followed by a voiced "z" sound. The word "wild" is spelled with the IPA transcription of /waɪld/, which shows that the first vowel sound is a diphthong of "ai" and the second vowel sound is an unrounded "i". Together, these two words evoke a sense of unbridled energy and excitement.
When an individual, group, or situation "runs wild," it means that there is a lack of control or restraint, leading to chaos, disorder, or uncontrollable behavior. This phrase describes a state in which someone or something becomes unruly, unrestrained, or free to do as they please, often causing confusion or adverse consequences.
In various contexts, "runs wild" can refer to the uncontrolled behavior of a person or an animal. For example, a child might be said to "run wild" when they are undisciplined or misbehaving without any regard for rules or authority. Similarly, when a herd of animals wanders without any supervision or control, it could be described as "running wild."
Furthermore, "runs wild" may indicate that a situation or event has spiraled out of control, deviating from the expected norms or plans. This can occur in various scenarios, such as a protest that escalates into violence, a project that becomes disorganized and chaotic, or a party where guests engage in reckless behavior.
Overall, "runs wild" implies a lack of containment, discipline, or order, resulting in an unpredictable, disorderly, or hazardous state. It emphasizes the absence of control mechanisms, leading to unregulated actions or elements acting freely and disruptively.
The phrase "runs wild" is a combination of two separate words, each with their own etymology.
The word "run" in this context comes from Old English "rinnan" or "irnan", which meant "to flow" or "to run". This verb has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as German "rennen" or Dutch "rennen".
The word "wild" comes from Old English "wild", which originally meant "untamed" or "not in control". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wilđis", which meant "uncultivated", "savage", or "feral". This term is also related to Old Norse "villr" and Gothic "wilþeis".
When combined, "runs wild" refers to something or someone, often an animal, that is not confined or under control.