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Definition of psycho

psycho

/ˈsaɪ.koʊ/
psy · cho
Plural:psychos
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psycho Lexical Profile

psycho Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Mentally unstable, erratic, or wildly irrational and aggressive in behavior (informal).

Example

"The character in the thriller went completely psycho when his secret plan was exposed."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A psychopath, or a person who behaves in an erratic, aggressive, or dangerously unstable manner (informal).

Example

"The classic horror film features a notorious psycho who runs a secluded roadside motel."

Synonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Used almost exclusively in informal or slang contexts, this word is considered derogatory when referring to individuals with genuine mental health conditions and should be avoided in formal or clinical writing.

• Rhymes for psycho

• Nearby Words

psychiatry
psychic
psychically
psycho
psychoanalysis
psychoanalyst
psychoanalyze

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century as a colloquial shortening of 'psychopath' or 'psychotic', ultimately derived from the Ancient Greek 'psykhe' meaning 'breath, spirit, or mind'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Psycho. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/psycho
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