panic

[ˈpænɪk]

panic Definition

  • 1a sudden feeling of great fear that cannot be controlled
  • 2a situation in which many people are affected by a strong feeling of fear and start to act in an uncontrolled way

Using panic: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "panic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She felt a sense of panic when she realized she had lost her phone.

  • Example

    There was a panic on the train when someone shouted 'fire'.

  • Example

    The stock market crash caused widespread panic among investors.

  • Example

    He tried to remain calm, but panic set in as the flames grew higher.

panic Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for panic

Antonyms for panic

Idioms Using panic

  • feeling or acting in a state of extreme fear or anxiety

    Example

    She was in a panic when she realized she had lost her passport.

  • to react to a situation with extreme fear or anxiety, often resulting in hasty or irrational decisions

    Example

    The team hit the panic button after losing their star player to injury.

  • panic stations

    a phrase used to describe a situation where people are preparing for or responding to an emergency

    Example

    When the tornado warning sounded, it was panic stations as everyone rushed to take cover.

Phrases with panic

  • a sudden episode of intense fear or anxiety that can cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and difficulty breathing

    Example

    She experienced a panic attack while driving on the highway.

  • a button or switch that can be pressed in an emergency to summon help or sound an alarm

    Example

    The hotel room had a panic button in case of an intruder.

  • a secure room in a building designed to provide safety during a home invasion or other threat

    Example

    The wealthy businessman had a panic room installed in his mansion.

Origins of panic

from French 'panique', from Greek 'panikos', meaning 'pertaining to Pan', the god known for causing terror

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Summary: panic in Brief

The term 'panic' [ˈpænɪk] refers to a sudden feeling of great fear that cannot be controlled, or a situation in which many people are affected by a strong feeling of fear and start to act in an uncontrolled way. It can manifest as a panic attack, or be triggered by events like a stock market crash. Phrases like 'panic button' and 'panic room' denote measures taken to address emergency situations. Idioms like 'in a panic' and 'hit the panic button' describe reactions to fear and anxiety.

How do native speakers use this expression?