The expression "were mad for" is spelled using the English language's irregular past form of the verb "be," which becomes "were" in the past tense. The word "mad" is spelled with the standard English orthography, representing the same pronunciation in IPA as [mæd]. Together, "were mad for" signifies a strong desire or passion for something in the past, conveyed through a combination of irregular verb tense and commonly used vocabulary.
The phrase "were mad for" refers to a strong or intense enthusiasm, obsession, or infatuation for something or someone. It is commonly used to convey a deep and insatiable passion or desire for a particular thing, activity, or subject matter.
The term "mad" in this context does not imply insanity, but rather implies a heightened level of intensity and fervor. It suggests a state of being incredibly enthusiastic, captivated, or fixated upon something. Consequently, "were mad for" suggests a level of excitement and devotion that may transcend the boundaries of normal or moderate interest.
For instance, if someone says, "We were mad for art in our youth," it indicates that they had an extreme passion and dedication to art during their younger years. Similarly, if a person says, "They were mad for each other," it implies a powerful and consuming love between two individuals.
Overall, the phrase "were mad for" highlights an exceptional vigor and fervency towards a specific object, activity, or relationship. It emphasizes an enthusiastic and unerring commitment, indicating a deep-seated ardor or obsession that goes beyond the ordinary levels of interest or affection.