Etymology: the rage

"Bubble skirts are all the rage."

This contemporary use of "rage" refers to a widespread, temporary enthusiasm or fashion. But given the traditional use of "rage" to indicate a great uncontrollable anger or an intense desire, the modern use carries the connotation that those who follow the rage are a a bit crazy.

The OED places the term's origins in Middle English, but it's interesting to note that the French term rage means madness. That Latin root of the french rage is rabies, and yes that also means crazy.