Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

basket-case

noun

/ˈbæskɪt keɪs/

Definition

A person who is unable to cope with life’s challenges due to stress or emotional problems.

Examples

After losing his job, he felt like a total basket-case and couldn’t manage his daily tasks.
She became a basket-case during the finals week, struggling to keep her stress under control.
Many people felt like basket-cases during the pandemic due to the uncertainty and constant changes.

Meaning

The term ‘basket-case’ originally referred to a soldier who lost all four limbs and had to be carried in a basket. Today, it describes someone who is overwhelmed by difficulties and unable to function normally.