buck fever
The term "buck fever" originates from the intense excitement and anxiety new hunters feel when they spot game, particularly a male deer.
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Definition
C1Hunting
(idiomatic)Nervous excitement experienced by new hunters when they first see game, often affecting their ability to aim and shoot.
Example
- He missed the shot because he was overcome with buck fever.
C1General
(idiomatic)Intense anxiety or panic in a high-pressure situation, leading to poor performance.
Example
- She got buck fever during her presentation and forgot all her lines.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "buck fever":