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Claustrophobic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Claustrophobic describes a fear of confined or crowded spaces, often causing anxiety or panic. It can also refer to places that feel uncomfortably small or restrictive.

claustrophobic

/ˌklɔːstrəˈfoʊbɪk/ /ˌklɒstrəˈfəʊbɪk/

Definition:

Suffering from extreme discomfort or fear in confined spaces.

Synonyms:

confined, cramped, oppressive, restrictive

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

agoraphobic, open-minded

Common Collocations:

claustrophobic feeling, claustrophobic space, claustrophobic environment, claustrophobic situation

Derivatives:

claustrophobia, claustrophobe

Usage Tips:

Use to describe fear of tight spaces; avoid overuse for general discomfort.

Common Phrases:

feeling claustrophobic, claustrophobic nightmare, claustrophobic atmosphere

Etymology:

From Latin *claustrum* (enclosure) + Greek *phobos* (fear), coined in the late 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The elevator felt too small and made her claustrophobic.
  • 2. He avoids crowded trains because they make him claustrophobic.
  • 3. The tiny room gave her a claustrophobic sensation instantly.
  • 4. Wearing tight clothing can trigger a claustrophobic reaction in some people.

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