An intense, irrational fear of heights that causes significant anxiety and avoidance of elevated places. The fear is disproportionate to the actual danger and interferes with normal activities like climbing stairs, crossing bridges, or looking out windows in tall buildings.
From Greek 'akros' (highest, topmost) and 'phobos' (fear), literally meaning 'fear of heights.' The term was first used in medical literature in the late 19th century as specific phobias became recognized as distinct anxiety disorders.
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