bedlam Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a state of extreme confusion and disorder
    topsy-turvydom; topsy-turvyness; chaos; pandemonium.
  2. noun pejorative terms for an insane asylum
    crazy house; cuckoo's nest; snake pit; loony bin; booby hatch; madhouse; nuthouse; funny farm; sanatorium; nut house; funny house.

WordNet

Bed"lam noun
Etymology
See Bethlehem.
Definitions
  1. A place appropriated to the confinement and care of the insane; a madhouse. Abp. Tillotson.
  2. An insane person; a lunatic; a madman. Obs.
    Let's get the bedlam to lead him. Shak.
  3. Any place where uproar and confusion prevail.
Bed"lam adjective
Definitions
  1. Belonging to, or fit for, a madhouse. "The bedlam, brainsick duchess." Shak.

Webster 1913