panic-struck
Definition
Adjective: - Overwhelmed by sudden, extreme fear: Describes a state of being suddenly overcome by intense, often irrational, terror or alarm, leading to desperation or loss of control.
Usage
The adjective "panic-struck" is used to describe a person, group, or sometimes an animal that is in the grip of sudden, overwhelming panic. It emphasizes the immediacy and intensity of the fear. - It typically functions as a predicate adjective (following a linking verb like be, become, feel) or as an attributive adjective before a noun. - It describes a temporary, reactive state rather than a permanent trait.
Examples
- The panic-struck residents fled the approaching wildfire.
- She became panic-struck when she realized she was locked out.
- The news left the entire community panic-struck.
- He tried to calm the panic-struck crowd.
Advanced Usage
- "panic-struck at the thought of...": Used to specify the cause of the sudden fear.
- The students were panic-struck at the thought of the final exam.
Variants and Related Words
- Panic-stricken (adj): A more common variant with identical meaning.
- The panic-stricken animals ran in all directions.
- Panicked (adj): The standard past participle of "panic" used as an adjective; very similar in meaning but can sometimes imply a slightly less immediate onset.
- Terrified (adj): Filled with terror; a strong synonym.
- Horror-struck (adj): Filled with horror or shock, often from witnessing something dreadful.
Synonyms
- Terrified: Filled with overwhelming fear.
- Alarmed: Suddenly frightened or disturbed by a sense of danger.
- Frenzied: Wildly excited or uncontrolled, often due to fear or anxiety.
- Desperate: Reckless or frantic from despair or a sense of urgency.
Antonyms
- Calm: Not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other strong emotions.
- Composed: Having one's feelings and expression under control.
- Unperturbed: Not concerned or worried.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To be struck with panic: An idiom meaning to be suddenly affected by panic, closely related to "panic-struck."
- The investors were struck with panic when the market crashed.
Adjective
-
thrown into a state of intense fear or desperation
-
became panicky as the snow deepened
-
felt panicked before each exam
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trying to keep back the panic-stricken crowd
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the terrified horse bolted
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