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acrophobia

noun

/ˌakrə(ʊ)ˈfəʊbɪə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of acrophobia

A specific phobia that is characterized by an excessive and persistent fear of heights.
"Her acrophobia made it difficult for her to even climb a short ladder."

Detailed meaning of acrophobia

This fear can be so severe that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. People with acrophobia may experience physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking when they are exposed to heights or even pictures or thoughts of heights. They may avoid places or situations where they think they might encounter heights, or they may become extremely distressed when they come into contact with them. This phobia is relatively common, and it can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Example sentences containing acrophobia

1. Her acrophobia made climbing the mountain an insurmountable challenge.
2. Acrophobia can be debilitating, preventing people from enjoying scenic views.
3. Overcoming acrophobia often requires therapy and gradual exposure.
4. His acrophobia kept him from pursuing a career as a window washer.
5. Acrophobia can trigger panic attacks in high places.
6. The fear of heights, or acrophobia, is more common than you might think.

History and etymology of acrophobia

The noun 'acrophobia,' denoting an irrational and intense fear of heights, has its origins in Greek etymology. It derives from two Greek words: 'akron,' meaning 'peak' or 'extremity,' and 'phobos,' meaning 'fear.' When combined, 'acrophobia' encapsulates the notion of fearing high places or extreme elevations. This psychological condition is marked by overwhelming anxiety and discomfort when exposed to heights, whether it be standing on a tall building, crossing a bridge, or ascending a steep incline. The term 'acrophobia' illustrates the precision of medical terminology in describing specific phobias by drawing from the rich linguistic heritage of ancient Greek.

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Further usage examples of acrophobia

1. Acrophobia sufferers may avoid tall buildings or bridges.
2. Treatment for acrophobia can include cognitive-behavioral therapy.
3. Even with acrophobia, she managed to conquer her fear during the hike.
4. Acrophobia can lead to restricted lifestyles and missed opportunities.
5. The movie scene on the skyscraper triggered her acrophobia.
6. Acrophobia is often deeply rooted in a person's psychology.
7. He decided to seek help for his acrophobia after a near fall.
8. Her acrophobia emerged during a trip to the observation deck.
9. Acrophobia is a common phobia that affects people of all ages.
10. The therapist helped him confront his acrophobia through exposure therapy.
11. Acrophobia limited her career choices, avoiding tall office buildings.
12. The fear of flying is related to acrophobia for many individuals.
13. Acrophobia can be managed with the right support and treatment.
14. His acrophobia was so severe that he couldn't even climb a ladder.
15. Individuals with acrophobia may experience intense anxiety or panic when high up.
16. The therapy helped him face and gradually overcome his acrophobia.
17. Because of her acrophobia, she always avoided booking flights and preferred to travel by train.
18. Acrophobia can be debilitating for those who live in high-rise buildings.
19. He never realized he had acrophobia until he froze in fear at the top of the ferris wheel.
20. Some people develop acrophobia after a traumatic experience involving heights.
21. Virtual reality therapy is becoming a popular method for treating acrophobia.
22. The psychologist specialized in treating various phobias, including acrophobia.
23. Acrophobia can often be managed through gradual exposure to heights in a controlled environment.
24. Because of his acrophobia, he had to decline the offer to go mountain climbing with his friends.
25. Understanding the root cause of her acrophobia helped her to begin addressing her fear of heights.
26. His acrophobia was so severe that he couldn’t even stand on a chair to change a light bulb.