Agoraphobic: meaning, definitions and examples

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agoraphobic

 

[ ˌæɡəˈræfobɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

psychological condition

Agoraphobic refers to the anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in case of a panic attack. Individuals with agoraphobia often avoid public spaces, crowded places, or traveling alone. This condition can lead to significant limitations in a person's daily life and activities. Treatment typically includes therapy and medication. In severe cases, it can restrict a person’s ability to leave their home.

Synonyms

fear of open spaces, panic disorder

Examples of usage

  • She became agoraphobic after several panic attacks in crowded places.
  • His agoraphobic tendencies prevented him from attending family gatherings.
  • Many people suffering from agoraphobia find it hard to get to work.
  • Agoraphobic reactions can be debilitating for those affected.

Translations

Translations of the word "agoraphobic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 agorafóbico

🇮🇳 एगोराफोबिया

🇩🇪 Agoraphobie

🇮🇩 agoraphobia

🇺🇦 агорофобний

🇵🇱 agorafobia

🇯🇵 広場恐怖症

🇫🇷 agoraphobie

🇪🇸 agorafobia

🇹🇷 agorafobi

🇰🇷 광장 공포증

🇸🇦 رهاب الساحات

🇨🇿 agorafobie

🇸🇰 agorafóbia

🇨🇳 广场恐惧症

🇸🇮 agorafobija

🇮🇸 agorafóbía

🇰🇿 агорофобия

🇬🇪 აგორაფობია

🇦🇿 agorafobiya

🇲🇽 agorafobia

Etymology

The term 'agoraphobic' stems from the Greek words 'agora,' meaning 'marketplace' or 'public place,' and 'phobos,' meaning 'fear.' It was first introduced in psychological literature in the late 19th century as part of the wider study of anxiety disorders. Early descriptions of the condition primarily focused on the fear of leaving home or venturing into crowded spaces, marking it as a unique psychological phenomenon. Over time, as understanding of mental health expanded, the term became more widely used to describe a range of anxiety-related behaviors. By the late 20th century, agoraphobia was recognized as a valid diagnosis in psychiatric manuals, solidifying its place within the broader context of anxiety disorders.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,118, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.