Why do people use the phrase "basket case" when refering to a crazy person? Where did it originate from?

Answer 1

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary “Basket case” was first used in 1919, for quadriplegic veterans of World War I.

The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000 defines Basket case

“In popular usage basket case refers to someone in a hopeless mental condition, but in origin it had a physical meaning. In the grim slang of the British army during World War I, it referred to a quadruple amputee. This is one of several expressions that first became popular in World War I, or that entered American army slang from British English at that time.”

“NOUN: 1. Slang One that is in a completely hopeless or useless condition: “He immediately becomes a psychological basket case, embittered to the point of craziness” (New York). “After World War I, when the Hapsburg empire was split up, little Austria seemed a basket case” (Paul A. Samuelson). 2. Offensive Slang A person, especially a soldier, who has had all four limbs amputated.”

Answer 2

Basket Case Origin

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Why do people use the phrase "basket case" when refering to a crazy person? Where did it originate from?

Answer 4

A person deemed as a "basket case" is a person who is emotionally unstable. The origin of the word, dates back to WW 2, when a soldier, who lost all four limbs, a quadruple amputee, had to had to be transported in a basket, rather than a stretcher.

Answer 5

A polite way of saying you're a bastard.
I think the orgin of the word goes back to French muleateers, carrying a child in a saddle pack or in a basket, a dependant person. An unable person.
Oh, forget it you're a basket case, don't bother I'll do it, you can't get that done yet? Can't you find where the road is ?Ect.
A disabled person or unable, either a polite way of putting it,
rather thater saying 'You are unable.'. or uncapable.

Answer 6

I think it referrs to throwing someone's case into the waste basket. They're done for, no one's going to bother trying anymore. They're a basket case.

Answer 7

To me, that is a Good Thing. I love being crazy. I have a fun life and I live it to the fullest of my capabilities♥

Answer 8

Part all there but not assembled, as in a motor cycle or other machine bought second hand as a project requiring reassembly.

Answer 9

Check these links:
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/56500.html
http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/content.php?contentid=66155
http://www.basketcasegifts.com/