How to Say “Crazy” in Lingala

By Deborah Penelope • Updated October 2, 2026

liboma

The English word 'crazy' can be translated into Lingala as liboma.

The term liboma is an adjective used to describe someone who is insane or demented.

Meaning: insane, demented (adj)

Did you know?

In Congolese music lyrics, liboma is frequently used to describe a love or passion so intense that it defies all logic.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, calling someone liboma can imply that their condition is a spiritual affliction rather than a clinical medical diagnosis.
In certain Congolese urban slang, describing a lifestyle as liboma suggests it is high-energy and unpredictable.

Example conversation

Patientine and Dieudonné are discussing a strange man in the street.

Patientine

Dieudonné, tala moto wana!
Dieudonné, look at that man!
Dieudonné

Nazali komona, azali liboma.
I see, he is crazy.
Patientine

Asambeli mopepe?
Is he talking to the wind?
Dieudonné

Ee, azali liboma mpenza.
Yes, he is truly insane.

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About The Author

Deborah Penelope

Jambo! I'm Deborah; an adventurer, language enthusiast, and swahili-language author of heart. I carry my love for Swahili everywhere I go, spreading it through my writings. For me, 'Ahadi' (promise) isn’t just a word, it's an expression of African culture. I enjoy journeying through life (or 'Maisha' in Swahili), penning down the beautiful dialects, peculiar food names, and even cheeky expressions in Swahili. Apart from my linguistic pursuits, I cherish biking, painting and spotting 'Chui' (cheetahs) on my Tanzanian adventures. I also write about Lingala, the musical language of the Congo, sharing how everyday words are said in it. I look forward to sharing more of the beautiful 'Lugha' (language) with you!

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