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Agoraphobia - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by fear of open or crowded spaces, often leading to avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable.

agoraphobia

/ˌæɡərəˈfoʊbiə/ /ˌæɡərəˈfəʊbiə/

Definition:

Fear of open or crowded spaces, often leading to avoidance of public places.

Synonyms:

claustrophobia, social anxiety, panic disorder

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

fearlessness, confidence

Common Collocations:

severe agoraphobia, develop agoraphobia, overcome agoraphobia

Derivatives:

agoraphobic (adj.), agoraphobe (n.)

Usage Tips:

Use "agoraphobia" to describe an anxiety disorder involving fear of situations where escape might be difficult.

Common Phrases:

"crippling agoraphobia, " "struggle with agoraphobia, " "agoraphobia symptoms"

Etymology:

From Greek "agora" (marketplace) + "phobos" (fear), meaning fear of open spaces or crowds.

Examples:

  • 1. She avoids crowded malls due to her agoraphobia.
  • 2. His agoraphobia makes traveling alone nearly impossible.
  • 3. Therapy helped her manage her agoraphobia over time.
  • 4. Agoraphobia can lead to isolation if untreated.

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