Fear of cold


Fear of cold: An abnormal and persistent fear of cold, including cold weather and cold objects. Sufferers of this fear experience undue anxiety even though they realize their fear is irrational. To avoid cold, they may live in a warm climate, dress more warmly than necessary, stay indoors on cold days, and avoid cold foods and ice cubes.

“Cryophobia” is derived from the Greek “kryos” (cold, frigid) and “phobos” (fear). “Kryos” has also given us English words such as “cryometer” (a thermometer for measuring very cold temperatures) and “cryotherapy” and “cryosurgery” (medical techniques that freeze and destroy diseased tissue). Related term: Thermophobia, fear of heat.

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