The term for a fear of clowns is "coulrophobia." This specific phobia can lead to significant anxiety and distress when encountering clowns or even thinking about them. The origins of coulrophobia are not exclusively clear, but it may stem from the exaggerated features and unpredictable behaviors of clowns, which can evoke fear in some individuals. Treatment for coulrophobia often includes therapy options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that aim to help individuals confront and manage their fears.