Entomophobia is an intense and ongoing fear of insects. Those who suffer from this phobia feel anxious even though they understand that most bugs are harmless. To steer clear of insects, they might often clean their homes, vacuum carpets, sweep hallways, use insecticides, or seal doors and windows. This fear, referred to as entophobia or insect phobia, also encompasses acarophobia (fear of mites, such as those causing scabies) and arachnophobia (fear of spiders). A genuine insect phobia is characterized by an irrational and persistent fear, coupled with a strong urge to avoid insects, mites, spiders, or similar creatures, causing significant distress. Despite recognizing their fear as irrational and excessive, individuals still find it difficult to manage. The term "entomophobia" comes from the Greek words "entomos" meaning insect, and "phobos" meaning fear. The scientific study of insects is known as entomology.
