Synonyms for

Panic

Verb / ˈpænɪk / Another word for panic — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior.

Synonyms & similar words

terror scare affright alarm dread fear fright horror terror consternation apprehension anxiety unease uneasiness nervousness tension stress agitation disquiet disquietude perturbation foreboding dismay

Synonyms by register

Formal

alarm apprehension dread trepidation

Informal

freak out lose it flip out have a fit go nuts

Literary

terror consternation affright

Antonyms

calm composure poise tranquility serenity steadiness coolness

Common collocations

  • sudden panic
  • wave of panic
  • panic attack
  • in a panic
  • panic stations
  • panic buying
  • panic button

Word family

noun panic
verb panic
adjective panicky

Usage note

While 'panic' can be used as a verb, it is often used as a noun. Be aware that 'panic attack' is a specific medical term.

Example sentences

  1. I felt a sense of panic when I realized I lost my phone.
  2. The loud thunder caused the cat to panic and run under the bed.
  3. She had a panic attack when she saw the spider.
  4. The stock market crash caused a panic among investors.
  5. He tried to remain calm during the emergency, but his panic got the best of him.

Quotes

  • Panic causes tunnel vision. Calm acceptance of danger allows us to more easily assess the situation and see the options. - Simon Sinek
  • Panic is a sudden desertion of us, and a going over to the enemy of our imagination. - Christian Nestell Bovee
  • We panic in the United States and it's not necessary. - Michael Moore

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words