panic attack

noun

, Psychiatry.

1. an intense attack of anxiety characterized by feelings of impending doom and trembling, sweating, pounding heart, and other physical symptoms.

panic attack

noun

1. an episode of acute and disabling anxiety associated with such physical symptoms as hyperventilation and sweating See also panic disorder

Example Sentences

When Hannah began sitting exams at school, at the age of 10, she started to experience panic attacks and "crippling anxiety".

From BBC

At one point it caused her to have a panic attack – and she eventually took advice from domestic abuse services.

From BBC

A woman who was trafficked to Northern Ireland from eastern Europe and forced into sex work has said she now suffers from flashbacks, panic attacks and now lives every day in fear.

From BBC

Georgie has a panic attack he prefers to regard as a heart attack.

From Los Angeles Times

I almost had a panic attack on that flight, because it was honestly the last thing I ever thought about with this film.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• spasm