Etymology Journal ยท G
Go off the deep end
Meaning
- To lose control of one's emotions or mental stability. It suggests that someone has abandoned logic or calm behavior in favor of an erratic outburst.
Dramatic, concerned
Used in a sentence
- Ever since he lost his job, he has really gone off the deep end.
- Don't go off the deep end just because the plans changed slightly.
- I think she finally went off the deep end and quit without a backup plan.
The backstory
The phrase refers to the deepest part of a swimming pool. If you are in the deep end, you are out of your depth, and if you go off it, you are truly sinking.
Heard in
Nationwide
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