separation anxiety
noun
: a form of anxiety experienced by a young child and caused by separation from a significant nurturant figure and typically a parent or from familiar surroundings
Examples of separation anxiety in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In over 44 percent of comparisons, a crossbreed had more undesirable aspects than their purebred progenitors including excess energy, separation anxiety, and more.
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Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 19 Mar. 2026
Sometimes when that foundation is not built, a child develops an anxious attachment, which can lead to challenging behavior like separation anxiety.
—Sherri Gordon, Parents, 22 Feb. 2026
Dogs with separation anxiety Puppies leaving the litter Small breeds who prefer warmth and cuddling
A plush donut bed with soft faux fur and supportive bolsters, ideal for anxious curlers who love to nest.
—Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
Especially for children who witnessed or experienced the arrest, detention or deportation of a family member, these effects can be severe, including separation anxiety and behavioral issues in the short term, as well as long-term risks of anxiety and depression.
—William D. Lopez, The Conversation, 18 Feb. 2026
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Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 19 Mar. 2026
Sometimes when that foundation is not built, a child develops an anxious attachment, which can lead to challenging behavior like separation anxiety.
—Sherri Gordon, Parents, 22 Feb. 2026
Dogs with separation anxiety Puppies leaving the litter Small breeds who prefer warmth and cuddling
A plush donut bed with soft faux fur and supportive bolsters, ideal for anxious curlers who love to nest.
—Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
Especially for children who witnessed or experienced the arrest, detention or deportation of a family member, these effects can be severe, including separation anxiety and behavioral issues in the short term, as well as long-term risks of anxiety and depression.
—William D. Lopez, The Conversation, 18 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for separation anxiety
Cite this Entry
“Separation anxiety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/separation%20anxiety. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.
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