Definition of Panic (meaning 1 of 2 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Panic
intense sudden fear that makes people act without thinking clearly
Detailed Definition of Panic
sudden overwhelming fear causing irrational behavior
How to Pronounce Panic
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: PAN-ik. The 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'cat'.
Watch out: puh-NIK (stress on second syllable) or PAY-nik (wrong vowel sound)
Other Meanings of Panic
“Panic” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Panic as a verb
to become suddenly very frightened and lose control of your actions
panic and run
Origin and Etymology of Panic
Greek panikon (deima): fear caused by Pan, the god of nature
How to Use Panic in a Sentence
Each example shows “panic” in the meaning “intense sudden fear that makes people act without…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She felt a wave of panic when she couldn't find her passport.”
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“There was mass panic in the theater when the fire alarm went off.”
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“The financial crisis triggered widespread panic among investors and consumers.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Panic
Common Synonyms for Panic
Smart Synonyms for Panic — When to Use Each
- anxiety
- ongoing worry; panic is sudden
- terror
- extreme fear; panic emphasizes irrationality
- alarm
- sudden concern; panic is more intense and uncontrolled
Antonyms of Panic
Common Collocations with Panic
These phrases pair with “panic” in everyday English:
- panic attack
- mass panic
- in a panic
- cause panic
Common Mistakes When Using Panic
Even fluent speakers slip up with “panic”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I'm in the panic.
- ✓ Correct: I'm in a panic.
- Why: Use 'a panic' not 'the panic' for temporary emotional states
- ✗ Wrong: The panic spread.
- ✓ Correct: Panic spread. / A panic spread.
- Why: When uncountable, omit article; when countable (mass panic event), use 'a'
Words Confused With Panic
- Panic vs Fear: fear is general emotion; panic is sudden uncontrollable episode with irrational behavior
Other Forms of Panic
- Noun: panic, panics
- Verb: panic, panics, panicked, panicking
- Adjective: panicked, panic-stricken
- Adverb: in panic
Frequently Asked Questions About Panic
What is the meaning of "Panic"?
intense sudden fear that makes people act without thinking clearly
How do you pronounce "Panic"?
The IPA is /ˈpæn.ɪk/. Stress the first syllable: PAN-ik. The 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'cat'.
What part of speech is "Panic"?
"Panic" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Panic"?
Common synonyms include fear, alarm, dread.
How do you use "Panic" in a sentence?
For example: "She felt a wave of panic when she couldn't find her passport."