The word often implies a traumatic experience or intense aversion, not just casual dislike. She couldn't even approach the pool's edge since her hydrophobia set in.
Pro Tip 2/3
Collocation Clue
Common collocations involve 'suffer from', 'develop', 'overcome', showing hydrophobia's perceived negativity. Many victims of shipwrecks suffer from hydrophobia years later.
Pro Tip 3/3
Context Sensitive
Used in psychological contexts, often related to phobias or mental health discussions. The therapist is helping him overcome his hydrophobia with gradual exposure.