Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

primal-fear

noun

/ˈpraɪ.məl fɪr/

Definition

Primal fear refers to a basic, instinctual fear that is rooted in the survival mechanisms of an individual. It is often associated with deep-seated anxieties related to danger, threat, or the unknown.

Examples

Many people experience primal fear when faced with extreme heights.
The documentary explored the primal fears that different animals exhibit when threatened.
His primal fear of abandonment often influenced his relationships.

Meaning

The term ‘primal fear’ signifies an elemental or fundamental fear that can trigger strong emotional responses, often linked to life-or-death situations or instinctual reactions.