Cholerophobia (koh-luh-roh-foh-bee-uh) is a fear of anger or the fear of being angry. The spelling of this word is quite straightforward, with the prefix "cholero-" derived from the Greek "cholera," meaning "bile." This emphasizes the connection between anger and intense inner feelings that might manifest in physical symptoms. The suffix "-phobia" means fear, so the whole word spells out the fear of intense feelings usually associated with anger or violent reactions. This word is a perfect example of how etymology helps us understand the meaning of the word.
Cholerophobia is a specific phobia characterized by an excessive or irrational fear of anger or experiencing anger. The word "cholera" originates from the Greek word "kholē" meaning "bile," which was historically associated with anger and was believed to be one of the four humors in the body. The suffix "-phobia" denotes an intense and irrational fear.
Individuals with cholerophobia often go to great lengths to avoid situations or stimuli that may provoke anger, whether it be in themselves or others. They may have an overwhelming anxiety response when confronted with situations involving conflict, criticism, or even minor frustrations. The fear may be triggered by loud or aggressive voices, confrontations, or any displays of anger, including their own.
Symptoms of cholerophobia can vary and may include an increased heart rate, trembling, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, and an intense desire to escape from the situation. This fear can significantly impact an individual's social life, relationships, and overall well-being, as they may avoid interactions or situations that could potentially involve anger.
Like other specific phobias, cholerophobia can be treated using various therapeutic approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques are commonly used to desensitize individuals to their fear and help them develop effective coping mechanisms.
A morbid fear of acquiring cholera.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cholerophobia" is derived from Greek roots.
- "Cholera" comes from the Greek word "kholḗra" (χολέρα), which means "bile" or "yellowish-green fluid". In ancient Greek medicine, it was believed that an imbalance of the four bodily humors, including an excess of yellow bile, caused illnesses and diseases.
- The suffix "-phobia" comes from the Greek word "phóbos" (φόβος), meaning "fear" or "aversion". It is commonly used as a combining form to describe an irrational or excessive fear of something.
Combining these roots, "cholerophobia" literally translates to the fear or aversion to cholera, a potentially deadly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.