# bonkers

/ˈbɑŋkɝz/ (US) · /bˈɒŋkəz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bonkers
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

completely crazy, silly, or wild. You use this when something or someone is acting in a very strange or funny way.

For teachers: mentally unbalanced or extremely foolish; characterized by wild or eccentric behavior. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'go' or 'be'.

## Examples

- The crowd went bonkers when the band finally started playing.
- The traffic in the city center during the holiday season is absolutely bonkers.
- While the initial proposal seemed slightly eccentric, the final version of the plan was completely bonkers and lacked any logical foundation.

## Usage notes

- Informal in register; frequently follows the verb 'go' to describe a sudden change in behavior.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.