Mythological Context:

Pan was believed to cause sudden, irrational fear in humans and animals, especially in lonely, wild places. This intense fear was attributed to the eerie and mysterious noises heard in nature, often during the night. This type of fear came to be known as “panic fear” or simply “panic”.

Historical Usage:

The word was adopted into Latin as panicus, and later into Old French. It eventually entered the English language in the late 16th century. Initially, it referred specifically to the irrational and sudden fear associated with Pan, but over time, the meaning broadened to include any overwhelming fear or anxiety.

Today, “panic” is commonly used to describe a sudden, intense, and uncontrollable fear, often leading to frantic or irrational behavior.