Definition

A person who has an intense fear of high places.

Example

As an acrophobe, she felt anxious when standing on the balcony of the tall building.

Conversation

Did you hear about Sarah? She's an acrophobe and can't go near tall buildings.

Oh wow, that must be tough for her, especially in the city.

Yeah, she missed out on the rooftop party last week because of it.

That's a shame! I hope she can find a way to overcome her fear.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Acrophobe is formed from "acro-" (from Greek "akron", meaning top or height) and "phobia" (from Greek "phobos", meaning fear). The word describes a person who has a fear of heights.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone who has a fear of being at the 'top' ('acro-') of a tall place — that's why an acrophobe is someone afraid of heights.

Visually Confused Words