Definition of Panic: Panic is a sudden, overwhelming feeling of fear or anxiety that can occur unexpectedly and can be intense and often debilitating. This extreme emotional response can be triggered by a perceived threat or emergency, leading to physical reactions such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and rapid breathing. Panic can also refer to a widespread and contagious sense of fear affecting many people, often resulting in irrational or unthinking behaviour.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘panic’ originates from the Greek god Pan, who was said to cause sudden, irrational fear, especially in lonely or secluded places. The term ‘panic’ began to be used in English in the 17th century to describe collective, uncontrollable fear. Over time, its use expanded to include individual experiences of extreme anxiety or dread.
