The term for the fear of clowns is "coulrophobia." This specific phobia can evoke feelings of anxiety, fear, or panic in individuals exposed to clowns or clown-related imagery. Various factors contribute to this fear, including the unpredictable behavior, exaggerated facial features, and costumes that clowns typically wear, which can be unsettling to some people. Cultural influences, such as horror films featuring clowns, may also exacerbate this fear. Coulrophobia can range in severity from mild discomfort to severe anxiety, impacting social interactions and experiences involving clowns or related events, such as circuses or parties.