panic attack
noun
plural panic attacks
: a sudden feeling or episode of panic
specifically
: a brief episode of intense fear or dread that is of sudden onset and typically subsides within 30 minutes, usually occurs for no apparent reason but may sometimes be associated with an identifiable triggering stimulus (such as an existing phobia), and is accompanied by a sense of unreality and impending loss of control and by various debilitating physical symptoms (such as increased heart rate, chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath)
Those undergoing a panic attack often believe they are suffering a heart attack or some other illness. —
Lillian Lee Kim
Lillian Lee Kim Agoraphobia is a fear only of fear itself, that is, of any situation where help would be unavailable and escape difficult in case of a panic attack. —The Harvard Mental Health Letter
compare anxiety attack
The Harvard Mental Health Letter Examples of panic attack in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Arguments, panic attacks or even the occasional in-flight outbursts make headlines.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Simone’s doing what Simone’s doing, and Peter’s having a panic attack.
—Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 23 May 2025
Former detainees speak of haunting nightmares, paralyzing panic attacks, and an inability to function.
—Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 20 May 2025
Sleepless nights and unexpected physical symptoms, including panic attacks, chest tightness, and autoimmune issues, have all been a part of her journey.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 18 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for panic attack
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Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Simone’s doing what Simone’s doing, and Peter’s having a panic attack.
—Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 23 May 2025
Former detainees speak of haunting nightmares, paralyzing panic attacks, and an inability to function.
—Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 20 May 2025
Sleepless nights and unexpected physical symptoms, including panic attacks, chest tightness, and autoimmune issues, have all been a part of her journey.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 18 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for panic attack
Cite this Entry
“Panic attack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/panic%20attack. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.
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