What type of emotional state does "ballistic" refer to?

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The term "ballistic" is most often used to describe someone who is extremely angry, to the point of losing control. The word originally refers to the trajectory of a projectile, evoking the idea of something being launched with great force, which parallels the intense and sudden outburst of anger in a person described as ballistic. This emotional state suggests a volatility and an uncontrollable reaction that is ignited by strong feelings of anger or rage. It conveys not just irritation but a significant escalation in emotion that can lead to aggressive behavior.

The other emotional states described in the options do not align with the meaning of "ballistic," as calmness, enthusiasm, and expressiveness do not capture the intensity or the nature of an outburst of anger associated with being ballistic.

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