The phrase "went bananas" is an idiom used when someone becomes overly excited or crazy. The spelling of this phrase is based on the pronunciation of the words "went" and "bananas." In IPA phonetic transcription, "went" is spelled /wɛnt/, with the "e" pronounced as a short "eh" sound. "Bananas" is spelled /bəˈnænəz/, with the stress on the second syllable and the final "a" pronounced as an "uh" sound. Together, the phrase is pronounced /wɛnt bəˈnænəz/.
"Went bananas" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of extreme excitement, enthusiasm, or irrational behavior. This colloquial phrase derives from the literal behavior of bananas, which, when overripe, turn soft and develop dark spots, giving them a visual appearance that symbolizes being beyond their normal state.
The expression is often employed to portray a person or a situation that has become frenzied, chaotic, or out of control. It suggests a loss of rationality, self-control, or calmness, often accompanied by wild actions, excessive energy, or extreme reactions. When someone "went bananas," it implies that they have abandoned their usual composure or logical thinking and have instead succumbed to impulsive, irrational behavior.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as describing a person's response to a surprise, extreme joy, fear, anger, or frustration. Additionally, it can be employed in situations where an individual loses their temper or displays erratic behavior due to stress, pressure, or perceived injustice.
Overall, "went bananas" is a lively and informal idiom that conveys a sense of someone or something being overwhelmed by emotions or circumstances, often resulting in an exaggerated display of behavior, similar to the way bananas appear when they ripen excessively.
The phrase "went bananas" is an idiomatic expression that means to become extremely excited, angry, or wild. The etymology of the phrase can be traced back to the early 20th century.
The word "banana" itself comes from the Wolof language spoken in West Africa, where it originally referred to the fruit. It was then passed into various European languages before reaching English. The term "went bananas" relates to the idea of bananas being synonymous with something bizarre, extraordinary, or irrational.
The origin of this specific phrase is unclear, but it likely emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century. It gained popularity due to bananas being associated with monkeys' behavior and their often frantic or erratic movements. "Going bananas" became a metaphorical way to describe someone's exaggerated or unconventional behavior.