Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Hydrophobia · Hy·dro·pho·bi·a · IPA /ˌhaɪ.dɹəˈfoʊ.bɪ.ə/ 01 n. An abnormal dread of water, said to be a symptom of canine madness; hence: 1. An abnormal dread of water, said to be a symptom of canine madness; hence:(Med.)