Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Barmy

What does it mean?

Silly or slightly crazy (informal British slang).

Is it positive or negative?

Usually humorous and mild.

When do you use it?

To describe strange behaviour or silly ideas in a light, joking way.

Examples

Example 1: He's absolutely barmy if he thinks that will work!

Example 2: What a barmy idea to camp in the garden in winter.

Question for you

Who's the most barmy person you know (in a good way)?

Are you looking for English speaking practice online?

Barmy is a light, playful way to say something is crazy. We work on natural slang in online English lessons with a British native speaker. If you want more like this, try bonkers. Find out more here.