be barking mad

be barking mad

To be crazy or insane. Although its origin is unknown, the phrase may refer to rabid dogs. It's freezing today, and you're not going to wear a coat? Are you barking mad? You're barking mad if you think that plan will work.See also: bark, mad

be barking ˈmad

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be ˈbarking

(British English, informal) completely crazy: You’re playing tennis in this weather? You’re barking mad!See also: bark, mad