Definition & Bedeutung von "[frighten|scare|terrify] {sb} out of {one's} wits"

What is the origin of the idiom "frighten someone out of one's wits" and when to use it?

The phrase "frighten someone out of one's wits" is thought to have originated in the 16th century. It is believed to be a reference to the practice of witches and wizards using magic to frighten people. This idiom is commonly used in various situations where someone experiences a severe or overwhelming level of fear. It can describe situations such as horror movies that elicit intense fright, witnessing a life-threatening event, encountering a sudden and unexpected danger, or being startled by a terrifying surprise.