Run amok Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Indicates loss of control, often leading to trouble or chaos. The party went wrong when the guests started to run amok. Pro Tip 2/3Common in Narratives Used in stories to describe scenes of confusion or pandemonium. Aliens landed, and the townspeople ran amok in the streets. Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use Often used to express overwhelming emotions or thoughts. After the breakup, his thoughts ran amok, leaving him distraught.