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aquaphobia

noun

/ˌæk wəˈfoʊ bi ə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of aquaphobia

An intense and irrational fear or phobia of water.
"His aquaphobia stemmed from a childhood incident where he almost drowned in a pool."

Detailed meaning of aquaphobia

It is a specific anxiety disorder characterized by extreme distress and anxiety when faced with the idea or experience of being in or around water. Individuals with aquaphobia may experience intense panic attacks, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and an overwhelming desire to avoid any situation involving water. This fear can stem from various factors, including traumatic experiences, a fear of drowning, or a lack of swimming skills. Aquaphobia can greatly impact a person's daily life, limiting their ability to participate in activities such as swimming, boating, or even taking baths. Overcoming aquaphobia often requires therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or exposure therapy, to help individuals gradually confront their fears, develop coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of control and comfort when it comes to water-related situations.

Example sentences containing aquaphobia

1. Her aquaphobia made it challenging for her to enjoy beach vacations or participate in water activities.
2. The swimming lessons aimed to help individuals overcome their aquaphobia and develop confidence in the water.
3. The therapist used gradual exposure techniques to help the patient confront their aquaphobia and gradually reduce their fear.
4. The aquaphobia sufferer felt a surge of panic even at the sight of a small puddle of water.
5. Despite her aquaphobia, she decided to face her fears and signed up for a scuba diving course.
6. The aquaphobia support group provided a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and find solace in knowing they were not alone.

History and etymology of aquaphobia

The noun 'aquaphobia' has its etymological roots in two components. The first part, 'aqua,' is derived from the Latin word 'aqua,' meaning 'water.' The second part, 'phobia,' comes from the Greek word 'phobos,' which translates to 'fear' or 'morbid fear.' Therefore, 'aquaphobia' etymologically signifies an intense and irrational fear or phobia of water. The term emphasizes the emotional and psychological distress experienced by individuals who grapple with an overwhelming dread of water, which can manifest in various forms, from a fear of swimming pools to a fear of open bodies of water like lakes or oceans. The etymology of 'aquaphobia' highlights the combination of the Greek and Latin elements to describe a specific type of anxiety disorder characterized by an irrational fear of water-related situations.

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Further usage examples of aquaphobia

1. The aquaphobia sufferer carried a life jacket everywhere as a safety precaution, even on dry land.
2. The aquaphobia sufferer's heart raced as they walked across a bridge over a river, gripped by their fear of water.
3. The aquaphobia sufferer sought therapy to overcome their fear and be able to enjoy pool parties with friends.
4. The aquaphobia sufferer avoided taking showers and opted for sponge baths to minimize their exposure to water.
5. The aquaphobia sufferer felt a mix of fear and fascination when looking at ocean waves, a constant reminder of their phobia.
6. Her aquaphobia prevented her from enjoying beach vacations.
7. Aquaphobia can be traced back to a traumatic water incident.
8. Aquaphobia can lead to panic attacks near bodies of water.
9. The fear of drowning, or aquaphobia, can be debilitating.
10. Overcoming aquaphobia often requires gradual exposure therapy.
11. Aquaphobia can make learning to swim a daunting challenge.
12. Her aquaphobia made even taking a bath a terrifying ordeal.
13. Aquaphobia can limit one's recreational activities.
14. The fear of water, aquaphobia, affects people of all ages.
15. Aquaphobia can be triggered by deep or murky water.
16. Children with aquaphobia may need patient, gentle guidance.
17. The lifeguard offered support to those with aquaphobia.
18. Aquaphobia may stem from a fear of the unknown beneath water.
19. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help treat aquaphobia.
20. Aquaphobia is more common than many people realize.
21. The therapist helped him confront his aquaphobia head-on.
22. Aquaphobia can hinder participation in water-related activities.
23. Overcoming aquaphobia is a significant accomplishment for many.
24. The support of loved ones is crucial in conquering aquaphobia.