Panic
/ˈpænɪk/noun
A sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior.
Did you know?The term 'panic' originates from the Greek god Pan, believed to induce irrational fear in those who wandered too close to his wild, untamed realm.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
πανικός (panikós)
“Of or relating to the god Pan, often associated with sudden fear.”
Middle English
English
panik
“A sudden overwhelming fear or anxiety.”
15th Century
Latin
panicus
“Pertaining to Pan, evoking fear.”
Modern English
English
panic
“The state of intense fear or anxiety, often leading to irrational behavior.”
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