Angsts are feelings of anxiety, fear, or dread that arise from a sense of uncertainty or unease about the future. These feelings can be intense and overwhelming, and can often lead to physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and heart palpitations. While everyone experiences some level of angst from time to time, it can become a chronic condition for some individuals, affecting their daily lives and overall well-being.
Definitions
The term angst is derived from the German word “Angst,” which means fear or anxiety. It is often used to describe a sense of unease or apprehension about the future, or a feeling of existential despair. In psychology, angst is defined as a feeling of dread or anxiety that arises from a sense of uncertainty or lack of control over one’s life.
Origin
The term angst was first used in the late 19th century by the Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, who used it to describe a sense of existential dread or anxiety that arises from the human condition. The word was later popularized by German writers such as Franz Kafka and Friedrich Nietzsche, who used it to describe a sense of alienation and despair in modern society.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, angst is defined as “a feeling of deep anxiety or dread, typically an unfocused one about the human condition or the state of the world in general.” Merriam-Webster defines angst as “a feeling of anxiety, apprehension, or insecurity.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines angst as “a feeling of anxiety and unhappiness about the future or about life in general.”
Associations
Angst is often associated with feelings of uncertainty, fear, and existential despair. It is commonly experienced by adolescents and young adults, who are navigating the challenges of growing up and finding their place in the world. Angst can also be a symptom of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Synonyms
Synonyms for angst include anxiety, apprehension, unease, dread, fear, worry, and nervousness.
Antonyms
Antonyms for angst include calm, peace, serenity, and tranquility.
The same root words
The word angst is derived from the German word “Angst,” which is also the root word for the English word “anxiety.”
Example Sentences
- She felt a sense of angst as she contemplated her future.
- The film captured the angst and alienation of modern youth.
- His constant worrying and anxiety were signs of his chronic angst.
- The uncertainty of the situation filled her with a sense of dread and angst.
- The character’s existential angst was a central theme of the novel.