[go] ape
1
to become extremely excited or enthusiastic about something
The exact origin of "go ape" is unclear, but it likely emerged in the mid-20th century, drawing from the energetic behavior of apes and monkeys. It metaphorically describes people's enthusiastic or irrational behavior, reflecting the wild movements and exuberance observed in primates. This expression finds its place in various scenarios, such as concerts or sporting events where fans go into a frenzy of excitement, parties or celebrations where people let loose and engage in uninhibited behavior, or even in everyday situations when someone becomes overly enthusiastic or animated about something.
- After weeks of anticipation, she finally received her long-awaited promotion and went ape, celebrating with a dance of sheer delight.
- The kids went ape when they saw the ice cream truck coming down the street, running and shouting with pure joy.
- When the band started playing their favorite song, the crowd went ape, dancing and cheering with uncontainable excitement.
2
to become extremely angry
The phrase "go ape" originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. It is believed to have emerged from the slang term "ape" or "go ape" used by jazz musicians to describe a wild, energetic, and uninhibited performance. This expression is often heard in casual conversations, discussions about personal experiences, or in fictional narratives to portray characters experiencing heightened anger or exhibiting aggressive behavior.
- When he discovered his car had been towed, he went ape and started yelling at the parking attendants.
- The customer's rude behavior towards the staff made the manager go ape and demand they leave the premises immediately.
- Seeing her ex-boyfriend with another woman at the party made her go ape and throw a drink in his face.
- The referee's controversial decision caused the coach to go ape on the sidelines, shouting and gesturing in anger.
- The constant delays and cancellations at the airport made the frustrated passengers go ape, venting their anger at the airline staff.