Panicked describes the state of being overcome by sudden, intense fear or anxiety that makes it hard to think clearly. When you panic, your heart races, your thoughts scatter, and you might freeze up or act without thinking. A student who panicked during a test might suddenly forget everything they studied, even though they knew the material perfectly well the night before.

Panic can strike anyone in overwhelming situations: a hiker who realizes they're lost might feel panicked, or a swimmer who gets caught in a strong current. When people are panicked, they often make poor decisions because fear has temporarily taken over their ability to reason calmly.

You might hear someone say “Don't panic!” when a stressful situation arises. Staying calm can help people think more clearly and solve problems better. A panicked crowd rushing for the exits can create more danger than an orderly one.