Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
agoraphobia
noun
/ˌæɡərəˈfoʊbiə/
Definition
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack.
Examples
- She struggled with agoraphobia and found it hard to leave her house.
- People with agoraphobia may avoid places like shopping malls or public transportation.
- Therapy can help individuals manage their agoraphobia effectively.
Meaning
The term ‘agoraphobia’ comes from the Greek words ‘agora,’ meaning ‘marketplace,’ and ‘phobos,’ meaning ‘fear.’ Essentially, it describes a fear of being in open or crowded spaces.
Synonyms
- fear of open spaces
- fear of crowds
- panic disorder
