Chaotic/keɪˈɑːtɪk/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Charge Chaotic often implies stress or panic because situations are out of control. The stock market was chaotic, leaving investors anxious. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Situations Chaotic is usually used for negative situations, rarely in a positive sense. The chaotic classroom left the substitute teacher overwhelmed. Pro Tip 3/3Scale and Scope Indicates a significant level of disorder, affecting many parts or aspects. A chaotic traffic jam stretched for miles in every direction.