PsychologyAugust 17, 2026

paranoid

PAIR-uh-noyd

Definition

Experiencing extreme, irrational distrust or suspicion of others, often accompanied by delusions of persecution.

Etymology

Originating from the Greek 'paranoia' (madness), the word combines 'para-' (beside/beyond) and 'noos' (mind), meaning literally 'outside of one's mind.' It entered English through late 19th-century medical terminology.

In the news

The term describes the worsening psychological condition of Lindsay Clancy, noting her suspicious behavior in the months leading up to the incident. It highlights the severity of her mental health decline as observed by her family.

Mom, sister testify about Lindsay Clancy's declining mental state before she killed her children

Read the full article ↗

The Tribune-Democrat

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