Dictionary
basket case
noun
: a person who is very nervous, tired, etc., and is not able to think or act normally
: something (such as a company or a government) that is in very bad condition and close to failure
Full Definition of BASKET CASE
1
: a person who has all four limbs amputated
2
: a person who is mentally incapacitated or worn out (as from nervous tension); also : one that is not functioning well or is in a run-down condition <an economic basket case>
See basket case defined for English-language learners
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of BASKET CASE
1919
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: basket catchPrevious Word in the Dictionary: basket capitalAll Words Near: basket case
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up basket case? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).