Pánico (en. Panic)

/ˈpaniko/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
A sensation of terror that provokes an uncontrollable reaction to a situation.
I felt panic when I saw the accident.
Sentí pánico al ver el accidente.
A sudden anxiety crisis that can manifest physically.
She suffered a panic attack on the plane.
Ella sufrió un ataque de pánico en el avión.
Irrational behavior caused by collective fear.
The news of the blackout generated panic in the city.
La noticia del apagón generó pánico en la ciudad.

Etymology

It comes from the Latin 'panicus', related to the Greek god Pan, who caused terror.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to be in panic
To feel a strong anxiety or fear in front of a situation.
estar en pánico
to fall into panic
To enter a state of great fear or loss of control.
caer en el pánico
stage fright
Anxiety or fear that a person feels when having to speak or act in front of an audience.
pánico escénico

Related Words

anxiety
A state of constant restlessness or worry.
ansiedad
phobia
Intense and disproportionate fear of something specific.
fobia
fear
A feeling of unease in the face of potential danger.
temor

Slang Meanings

To have severe panic
I had severe panic when I saw the big waves.
Me dio un pánico severo cuando vi las olas grandes.
collective panic
Collective panic broke out when the alarm went off.
Se desató un pánico colectivo cuando sonó la alarma.