Agoraphobia (noun)

An anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of being in situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing, or in which help may not be available in the event of having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms.

Origin:

From the greek word "agora" meaning "market place" and "phobia" meaning "fear", it is a term coined by german psychiatrist carl westphal in 1871 to describe a fear of open or public spaces.

Examples:

1. He was diagnosed with agoraphobia and had a hard time leaving his home.
2. The agoraphobia prevented her from going to work or socializing.
3. His agoraphobia was so severe that he was unable to leave his house for years.
4. The agoraphobia was triggered by a traumatic event that happened in a public place.
5. The therapy for agoraphobia included exposing the patient to the feared situations in a controlled environment.