Pronunciation: [ʌnhˈɪnd͡ʒd] (IPA) 
The word "unhinged" is spelled with four letters, starting with a "u" then an "n", followed by "h" and "i". It's pronounced /ʌnˈhɪndʒd/ with stress on the second syllable. The "un" prefix means "not", while "hinged" refers to a joint or a mechanism that allows movement. "Unhinged" therefore means not having hinges or coming apart from something. It can also be used figuratively to mean losing one's sanity or emotional stability.
The term "unhinged" is an adjective that describes a state or condition of being mentally unstable, disturbed, or mentally deranged. It commonly characterizes a person who displays irrational or erratic behavior, lacking mental stability or soundness. It implies a significant loss of emotional or psychological balance, often leading to unpredictable or impulsive actions.
In a broader sense, "unhinged" can also refer to anything that is disordered, out of control, or lacking stability. This can be applied to situations, events, or even systems that display chaotic or erratic tendencies, lacking organization or coherence.
The word "unhinged" originated from the combining of the English prefix "un-" meaning "not" or "lacking," and the noun "hinge," which refers to the movable joint that allows opening and closing of doors, gates, or other structures. This syntax captures the notion of a break or detachment from something that provides stability or support.
Furthermore, "unhinged" can be used metaphorically to describe ideas, theories, or arguments that are highly irrational, lacking logical coherence, or being disconnected from reality. It suggests a breakdown in reasoning or judgment, rendering the concept or belief unreliable or implausible.
Overall, the term "unhinged" encompasses a spectrum of meanings related to mental instability, disorder, lack of stability, and irrationality, making it a versatile word to describe various aspects of human behavior and the world at large.
Loosed from the hinges; unsettled; deranged.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "unhinged" is formed by adding the prefix "un-" to the noun "hinge". The noun "hinge" derives from the Old English word "henge", meaning a hanging, a hinge, or a hook. It is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hangijō", meaning a hinge or a joint. The prefix "un-" is a productive prefix in English that is used to indicate negation or reversal. Hence, "unhinged" conveys the meaning of being detached or separated from the original position or state that a hinged object should be in.
