The phrase "went ballistic" is a common expression used to describe someone's angry and explosive reaction to a situation. In terms of spelling, "went" is pronounced /wɛnt/ while "ballistic" is pronounced /bəˈlɪstɪk/. The word "ballistic" is derived from the Greek word "ballistēs," meaning "thrower," and can refer to the science of projectiles or weapons that use propellants to launch bullets. The origin of the phrase "went ballistic" is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the military.
"Went ballistic" is an idiomatic expression that means to become extremely angry, agitated, or emotionally explosive in a sudden and uncontrollable manner. This phrase derives its meaning from the ballistic motion of a projectile, which is characterized by rapid and erratic movement.
The term is commonly used to depict a person's intense reaction when they feel provoked, frustrated, or overwhelmed by a certain situation or event. When someone "goes ballistic," they lose control of their emotions and may display a wide range of behaviors such as shouting, screaming, throwing objects, or becoming physically aggressive. The phrase often implies that the person's angry outburst is excessive and out of proportion to the triggering event.
"Went ballistic" can also refer to a state of extreme excitement or enthusiasm. In this context, the phrase suggests that a person has become very exuberant, jubilant, or thrilled about something, displaying an enthusiastic response similar to the unpredictable movement of a ballistic object.
Overall, "went ballistic" is an expression used to vividly describe a passionate and uncontrollable emotional reaction, whether negative or positive, that is characterized by an intense and explosive release of pent-up feelings.
The phrase "went ballistic" is an idiomatic expression that means to become very angry, agitated, or out of control in reaction to a particular situation.
The term "ballistic" in this context actually comes from the field of physics, where it refers to the study of projectiles and their motion. In physics, "ballistics" specifically deals with the motion and behavior of objects that are thrown, shot, or otherwise propelled through the air.
The origin of the phrase "went ballistic" is believed to have originated from the ballistic trajectory of a missile or projectile. When a missile is launched, it follows a highly curved path known as a ballistic trajectory. As the missile gains speed and altitude, it reaches its peak and then comes back down towards its target.
In popular usage, the phrase "went ballistic" suggests a sudden and explosive release of anger or frustration, similar to the explosive nature of a ballistic missile.