panic attack

American  

noun

Psychiatry.

• panic attacks
  plural

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

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panic attack British  

noun

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

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• panic attacks
  plural

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

panic attack

"I'm instantly broke, panic attack, phoning GPs, back on medication, anxiety through the roof," Gerry said.

From BBC ● Aug. 17, 2026

I had a panic attack in that venue in North London when I was supporting Wu-Tang Clan.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 11, 2026

During the meal, he had a panic attack and excused himself to call his therapist.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 29, 2026

Warner Judd recalls feeling like she was "having a panic attack" upon returning to the track, and required a year of therapy to fully process her trauma.

From BBC ● Apr. 23, 2026

For a second, I think I might have a panic attack, but I calm myself down.

From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

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