Pronunciation: [wɛnt wˈaki] (IPA) 
"Went wacky" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a person's unusual or erratic behavior. The word "wacky" is spelled with a /w/ sound followed by a short /a/ sound, represented in IPA as /wæk.i/. The word "went" is the past tense of the verb "go," with a /w/ sound followed by a long /ɛ/ sound, transcribed as /wɛnt/. These two words together create a playful and memorable phrase that is easy to remember and fun to say.
The phrase "went wacky" refers to a situation in which something or someone becomes eccentric, unpredictable, or behaves in an irrational or unconventional manner. This colloquial expression is often used to describe a sudden and noticeable change in behavior that deviates from the expected or normal.
When something "goes wacky," it implies that it has taken on a peculiar, often inexplicable, and unexpected nature. This can refer to various scenarios such as objects malfunctioning, systems collapsing, or even people displaying unusual or bizarre behavior. For example, if a computer starts randomly producing gibberish instead of functioning properly, one might say that it "went wacky." Similarly, if an individual suddenly starts talking nonsensically or acting strangely, it could be described as them "going wacky."
The term "went wacky" also conveys a sense of amusement or disbelief towards the situation or behavior in question. It implies that the occurrence is abnormal or outside of the norm, leading to amusement or puzzlement. While it is a colloquial phrase, it effectively communicates the idea of something or someone exhibiting unconventional or eccentric behavior.
Overall, "went wacky" describes a departure from the ordinary, indicating an unexpected and often entertaining deviation from what is considered typical or normal.
The phrase "went wacky" is an idiomatic expression rather than a word with specific etymology. However, "wacky" itself has an interesting etymology. The term "wacky" emerged in the early 20th century in the United States as slang. Its exact origin is not clear, but it is believed to be an alteration of the word "whacky" or "whack", which means "crazy" or "eccentric". The alteration may have been influenced by the sound of the word or to add emphasis. So, "went wacky" would mean someone or something became crazy or started behaving in a strange or eccentric manner.
