Words / C2

BEDL-uh-m/ˈbedləm/

Bedlam is a scene of noisy uproar and confusion: bedlam in the hall, absolute bedlam. Chaos (already in the dictionary) is everyday and wider; a cacophony and a maelstrom (already in the dictionary) are a harsh mix of sound and a violent swirl. Obstreperous (already in the dictionary) is of people who will not be quiet. Corridor noise is not a numbered objection.

Meaning

A scene of noisy uproar and confusion.

Examples

• “Bedlam in the corridor is not a numbered objection.”
• “Chaos is everyday (already in B1). A cacophony is a harsh noise mix (already in C2). A maelstrom is a violent swirl (already in C2). Noise after a sitting can be harmless. Noise instead of a dated minute is a hole. Write the finding; then the din may pass.”

Good to know

Noisy chaos; uproar. Everyday: chaos (already in this dictionary). Close: cacophony / maelstrom (already in C2). Contrast: obstreperous (unruly people — already in C2). Uproar ≠ a minute.

Near in meaning

chaos, uproar, pandemonium, tumult

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