Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
go-ballistic
idiom
ɡoʊ bəˈlɪstɪk
Definition
To become extremely angry or agitated; to lose control of one’s emotions, often suddenly.
Examples
- When he found out that his report was ignored, he went ballistic in the meeting.
- She tends to go ballistic when her plans are disrupted by last-minute changes.
Meaning
The phrase originates from the military, referring to a ballistic missile that is launched and follows a predetermined trajectory. In a figurative sense, it describes a sudden and intense reaction, typically of anger.
Synonyms
- explode
- fly off the handle
- lose it
- go off the deep end
