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What's the word for the fear of long words?
The word you're looking for
This is the best-known word for the fear of long words. It is often used as a joke because it is itself very long.
Other words that fit
Use this if you want a shorter, more serious-sounding term for the same fear.
This can mean fear of words or speaking, so it is less exact for long words.
This is a rare term for fear of words, but it is not the common choice here.
Why this word
The usual word for the fear of long words is hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia. It is famous partly because it is extremely long, so people often use it humorously. If you want a shorter and more practical term, sesquipedalophobia is a better choice. In real use, many speakers just say “fear of long words” instead of using a technical term.
In context
- She joked that she had hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia.
- The long word made everyone laugh.
- Sesquipedalophobia is the shorter term.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia a real word?
- Yes, it is used as a word for the fear of long words, but it is often treated as humorous.
- Is there a shorter word for this fear?
- Yes. Sesquipedalophobia is a shorter and more practical term.
- Do people use this word in everyday English?
- Usually not. Most people simply say “fear of long words.”
- What does sesquipedalian mean?
- It means long or using long words, especially in writing or speech.