Panic

Definition

Panic refers to a sudden, uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpænɪk/
• Respelling: PAN-ik (with "PAN" as in "pan," and "ik" as in "pick")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpænɪk/
• Respelling: PAN-ik (similar to American English, with "PAN" as in "pan," and "ik" as in "pick")

In both dialects, "panic" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "PAN." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the "PAN" part followed by "ik."

Etymology

Derived from the French word panique, which has its origins in the Greek god Pan. According to mythology, Pan had the power to cause sudden, groundless fear in humans, especially in lonely places.

Derivatives

• Panicky
• Panic-stricken
• Panic-driven
• Panic-buy
• Panicker

Synonyms

• Alarm
• Terror
• Fright

Antonyms

• Calm
• Composure
• Tranquility

Usage

"Panic" is commonly used to describe extreme states of fear that can result in irrational behavior or decisions. It is often associated with sudden emergencies or unexpected situations.

Related Terms

• Anxiety
• Fear
• Alarm
• Stress
• Hysteria

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A sudden, overpowering feeling of fear or anxiety that results in unreasonable behavior.
• Example: "There was a mass panic when the fire alarm went off."

• A widespread feeling of apprehension or concern caused by an imminent or unexpected event.
• Example: "The economic downturn led to a panic in the stock market."

Verb

• To be overwhelmed with an intense feeling of fear or anxiety, often resulting in hasty actions without logical thinking.
• Example: "She panicked when she couldn't find her child in the crowded mall."

• To cause someone to feel panic.
• Example: "The sudden loud noise panicked the horses."