ClimateAugust 29, 2026

neophobic

NEE-uh-FOH-bik

Definition

Characterized by an irrational fear or dislike of anything new or unfamiliar.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'neos' (new) and 'phobos' (fear). It entered English in the late 20th century to describe the psychological aversion to novelty.

In the news

The article uses this term to describe how populations in environments with high pathogen levels often develop socially conservative and cautious behaviors, including a resistance to new people or experiences.

What We Think about When We Think about Climate Action

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Daily Observer

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