Definition

Noun: A persistent, irrational, and often overwhelming fear of thunder and lightning. It is classified as a specific phobia, where the fear is triggered by the sight or sound of a thunderstorm.

Usage

The word "astraphobia" is used to name the specific psychological condition. It is a formal or clinical term. * People with astraphobia may experience severe anxiety during storms. * Her astraphobia was so intense she would hide in a closet at the first rumble of thunder.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical Context: In psychology and psychiatry, "astraphobia" is used to diagnose a specific anxiety disorder. Treatment may involve cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • The therapist specialized in treating specific phobias like astraphobia.

Variants and Related Words

• Astraphobic (adjective): Describing someone who has astraphobia or relating to the phobia itself.
  • The astraphobic child needed constant reassurance during the storm.
• Brontophobia (noun): A synonym for astraphobia, also meaning fear of thunder.
• Tonitrophobia (noun): Another synonym, specifically meaning fear of thunder.
• Keraunophobia (noun): A synonym, specifically meaning fear of lightning.

Synonyms

• Fear of thunder and lightning
• Brontophobia
• Tonitrophobia
• Keraunophobia

Related Idioms or Phrases

There are no common idioms that use the exact word "astraphobia." The condition is typically described directly. * To have a fear of thunder and lightning: A descriptive phrase with the same meaning. * She has a crippling fear of thunder and lightning.

Noun

1. a morbid fear of thunder and lightning