'bedlam' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'Bedlem,' which was a colloquial pronunciation of 'Bethlehem,' referring to the Hospital of St. Mary of Bethlehem in London, which became a notorious insane asylum.

'Bedlem' transformed into the modern English word 'bedlam,' signifying chaos and confusion.

Initially, it referred to the hospital itself, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a scene of uproar and confusion.'