noun
acrophobia
ak-ruh-FOH-bee-uh
Acrophobia (noun) means an intense fear of heights or of being high above the ground. Example: “His acrophobia meant he couldn't even walk near the edge of the roof terrace.”
noun
1
an intense fear of heights or of being high above the ground.
"His acrophobia meant he couldn't even walk near the edge of the roof terrace."
"She avoids ladders and balconies because of her acrophobia."
"Acrophobia can make even a short flight of stairs with an open side feel frightening."
How to use acrophobia
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA strong, often overwhelming fear of high places.
When to use it
It is a clinical-sounding term, so everyday speech often prefers the plainer phrase 'fear of heights'.
Memory tip
Both the noun and adjective spellings keep the 'ph' from phobia, so avoid writing 'acrofobia'.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
suffer from acrophobia
severe acrophobia
overcome acrophobia
mild acrophobia
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His _____ meant he couldn't even walk near the edge of the roof terrace.
Etymology
Built from the prefix acro-, meaning high or at the top, joined to -phobia, meaning fear.
Synonyms
View more →
altophobia
fear of heights
hypsophobia
Antonyms
bathophobia
Rhymes for acrophobia
See all rhymes for acrophobia →Frequently asked questions
What does acrophobia mean?
It is a strong fear of being at a great height above the ground.
What is the opposite of acrophobia?
Bathophobia, a fear of depths or of looking down into deep spaces, is treated as its opposite.
Is acrophobia the same as fear of flying?
No, acrophobia is specifically about height itself, while fear of flying can involve other worries such as loss of control or enclosed spaces.
What is the meaning of acrophobia?
"acrophobia" (noun) means an intense fear of heights or of being high above the ground.
