Hydrophobia
/ˌhaɪ.drəˈfoʊ.bi.ə/noun
An extreme or irrational fear of water.
Did you know?In ancient times, hydrophobia was believed to signify a spiritual or demonic affliction, linked to the fear of uncontrollable forces.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὕδωρ (hydor)
“Water, often associated with life and purification.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
φοβία (phobia)
“Fear, often linked to a deep psychological or spiritual dread.”
16th Century
Latin
hydrophobia
“A term used to describe an aversion to water, particularly in the context of disease.”
19th Century
English
hydrophobia
“Specifically referred to the fear of water as a symptom of rabies.”
Modern English
English
hydrophobia
“Continues to denote extreme fear of water, often used in medical contexts.”
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