n, pl  -eties  1 a  :  a painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usu. over an impending or anticipated ill  b  :  a cause of anxiety  2  :  an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it .
 
 
 
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