Derange

Derange (verb) refers to the act of disturbing the order, arrangement, or functioning of something. It is often used to signify causing a state of confusion, disorder, or insanity in a person or system. Derived from the Old French 'deranger,' which means to throw into disorder, it can also imply a mental imbalance or emotional turmoil. The term is commonly used in both psychological contexts and in relation to mechanical or organizational disarray.

Derange meaning with examples

• The unexpected announcement deranged the carefully laid plans for the conference, leading to confusion among the attendees. Participants struggled to adapt to the sudden changes, resulting in a chaotic environment. The organizers hurried to redistribute resources and information, hoping to regain some sense of order and ensure that everything would run smoothly despite the turmoil caused by the announcement.
• His repetitive thoughts and escalating fears began to derange his ability to focus at work. As weeks passed, his productivity suffered greatly, and he found himself increasingly lost in anxiety. Seeking help from a mental health professional, he learned to manage his thought patterns, slowly working towards regaining his mental clarity and restoring his functionality in professional tasks.
• An unplanned power outage deranged the entire city, plunging homes and businesses into darkness. Traffic lights failed to operate, causing gridlock on major streets and putting pedestrians at risk. Local authorities quickly mobilized to restore power, hoping to minimize confusion and reduce the chaos caused by the sudden disruption in the electric supply that affected thousands.
• The storm deranged the fragile ecosystem of the coastal region, displacing numerous species and disrupting their breeding patterns. Environmentalists noted that such disturbances could have long-lasting effects on biodiversity, leading to further ecological imbalance. They emphasized the need for urgent conservation efforts to mitigate human impact and protect the habitats vulnerable to unpredictable natural events.
• When she lost the important document, the mistake deranged all her calculations for the project deadline. Frantically, she searched her home and office, retracing her steps in hopes of finding the lost item. The panic she felt was palpable, but she gradually calmed down and sought assistance from her colleagues, focusing on collaborative solutions to ensure timely completion despite the setback.