Panic/ˈpænɪk/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Fear Use 'panic' to describe a quick, intense onset of fear, not a prolonged feeling. I felt a wave of panic when I lost my keys. Pro Tip 2/3Clear Thinking Blocked 'Panic' often means you're too scared to think straight or act logically. In my panic, I forgot the simplest solution. Pro Tip 3/3Avoid During Emergencies ‘Panic’ is often said to others to stay calm in urgent situations. Firefighters told us, 'Don't panic, help is on the way.'