What does it Mean to ‘Run Amok’?

To run amok means to go crazy; to become frenzied or reckless.

This phrase comes from Southeast Asia where ‘amok’ refers to a murderous rage; a fit of anger so violent that might kill someone.

In old times, there were some warriors in present-day Malaysia who were taught to do or die in battle. These warriors were known as ‘Amucos’. They were told that those who died in the battle were children of the gods whereas those who were defeated in the war were punished by dishonor and death.

With these beliefs, Amuco warriors would go all out and fight fiercely with violent intentions and murderous spirits. Thus, to run amok means to run with ferocious and vicious intentions; to run in a wild and uncontrolled manner.

For example —

“After the robbery, the looters were running amok in the city.”

It means that after the robbery, the looters were running wildly and violently in the city, harming anyone who came their way.

I hope you found this story interesting. If you did, buy my full course on Udemy or watch it for free on Skillshare by signing up here. This course covers nearly 380 idioms with their origins and backstories.

Hi, I am Gauri Shanker, a Vocab teacher and enthusiast. I teach vocabulary in a fun and engaging way. You can check out my courses here.