Pronunciation: [ˌakɹəfˈə͡ʊbi͡ə] (IPA) 
Acrophobia is a fear or phobia of heights. It is spelled with a "c" and not a "k" because the root word, "acro-" meaning "high," comes from Greek, where "c" is used instead of "k" for the "k" sound. The "o" is pronounced with a short "oh" sound, followed by a soft "f" sound, and then a long "oh" sound. Finally, the "bia" at the end is pronounced with a "bee-uh" sound. Therefore, acrophobia is pronounced uh-kroh-foh-bee-uh.
Acrophobia is a noun that refers to an extreme and irrational fear or phobia of heights. It is derived from the Greek words "acron," meaning "height," and "phobos," meaning "fear." People suffering from acrophobia experience intense anxiety and panic when exposed to heights or even the thought of being at a high elevation, such as standing on a tall building, bridge, or mountain.
Individuals with acrophobia often have a strong inclination to avoid situations that involve heights. They may experience symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, dizziness, and nausea, which can be disabling and interfere with their daily activities and quality of life.
The origin of acrophobia can vary from person to person. Some individuals develop it due to a traumatic experience involving heights, such as falling or witnessing someone else fall. Others may acquire it through learned behavior from family members or peers who have a similar fear. Sometimes, acrophobia can also arise without any identifiable cause, appearing suddenly in certain individuals.
Treatment options for acrophobia include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which aims to modify negative thought patterns and gradually expose individuals to their fear of heights over time. Medications like anti-anxiety drugs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed in severe cases.
Acrophobia is a common and well-known phobia that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Understanding and acknowledging this fear is essential in offering support and creating environments that are accommodating for those who experience acrophobia.
A morbid dread of elevated places.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "acrophobia" is derived from the Greek words "akros" meaning "high" or "topmost" and "phobos" meaning "fear" or "phobia". Therefore, "acrophobia" can be defined as the fear or anxiety associated with heights or high places.
