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

Lingering can actually make separation harder, according to guidance on separation anxiety. — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Tears, clinging and nervousness are familiar scenes at kindergarten drop-off, and understanding kindergarten separation anxiety can make the difference between a bumpy morning and one that builds a child’s confidence. — Ashley Lynch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Aug. 2026

Have your child bring a little reminder of home to ease their separation anxiety. — Karin A. Bilich, Parents, 4 Aug. 2026

Could this be attention-seeking behavior or separation anxiety? — Cathy M. Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for separation anxiety

• antianxiety
• intersociety
• contrariety
• impropriety
• inebriety
• notoriety
• gaiety
• piety
• impiety
• propriety
• satiety
• sobriety

Medical Definition

separation anxiety

noun

: a form of anxiety that is caused by separation from a significant nurturant figure and typically a parent or from familiar surroundings and that has an onset during childhood or sometimes adolescence