Definition of Bathophobia

Bathophobia: An abnormal and persistent fear of depths. Sufferers from bathophobia experience anxiety even though they realize they are safe from falling into or being consumed by depths. The feared object may be a long, dark hallway, a well or a deep pool or lake.

"Bathophobia" is derived from the Greek "bathos" (depth) and "phobos" (fear).

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=12212
Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012