"Go ape" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the 1950s. It is often used informally and colloquially to describe a state of extreme excitement, enthusiasm, or anger. When someone goes ape, they become extremely agitated or lose their self-control.
The term "go ape" is derived from the behavior of apes, known for their intense and sometimes uncontrollable reactions. Similar to the erratic behavior of apes, individuals who go ape manifest a sudden burst of intense emotion, often accompanied by loud noises, physical gestures, or even erratic movements.
In a positive sense, when someone goes ape, they display an overwhelming excitement, delight, or exuberance. This can involve a sense of enthusiastic cheerfulness, jumping up and down, or engaging in lively, unrestrained behavior. For instance, a fan might go ape when their favorite sports team scores a winning goal or someone might go ape at a concert by energized dancing and cheering.
On the negative side, going ape can also refer to an outburst of anger, frustration, or fury. Someone who goes ape in this sense might shout, scream, or engage in aggressive behavior. It can also imply a loss of control where an individual acts impulsively, irrationally, and without thinking.
Overall, the phrase "go ape" conveys the idea of an extreme emotional reaction, either positive or negative, where an individual's behavior becomes wild, uninhibited, and reminiscent of the unpredictable actions of apes in the wild.
