Definition

A person who has a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance of open or crowded places.

Example

As an agoraphobe, she found it difficult to leave her house without feeling anxious.

Conversation

I read an article about someone who is an agoraphobe and it was really interesting.

That sounds intriguing! What did it say?

It explained how they struggle with leaving their home and facing crowds.

Wow, that must be really tough for them to handle.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Agoraphobe is formed from "agora" (from Greek "agora", meaning marketplace or open space) and "phobia" (from Greek "phobos", meaning fear). The word describes a person who has a fear of open spaces or crowded places, often associated with the fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult.

Memory Tip

Imagine a person who feels fear ('phobia') in an open space ('agora') — this helps you remember that an agoraphobe is someone who fears open or crowded places.

Visually Confused Words