Barophobia is the irrational and intense fear of gravity. People with barophobia may fear being crushed by the force of gravity or worry that gravity might suddenly disappear, causing them to float away. This fear can manifest in anxiety, panic attacks, and avoidance of activities where gravity's effects are noticeable, such as flying or climbing. The term comes from the Greek words "baros," meaning weight or pressure, and "phobia," meaning fear. Barophobia can cause significant distress because gravity is an omnipresent force that cannot be avoided in everyday life.