claustrophobic
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //klɔːstrəˈfoʊbɪk//
KK: /klɔːstrəˈfoʊbɪk/
adjective
Definition
Feeling uncomfortable or anxious in small or closed spaces.
Example
She felt claustrophobic in the crowded elevator.
Conversation
I felt really claustrophobic in that small elevator yesterday.
Yeah, I know what you mean; it was super tight in there.
I couldn't wait to get out of it!
Same here! I prefer wide-open spaces.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
confined
cramped
tight
Antonyms
spacious
open
expansive
noun
Definition
A person who has a strong fear of being in small or enclosed spaces.
Example
She is claustrophobic and feels anxious in elevators.
Conversation
Have you ever met someone who is a real claustrophobic?
Yeah, my cousin can't even ride in an elevator without panicking.
That must be tough for them, especially in a big city.
Root Explanation
Claustrophobic is formed from "claustrum" (from Latin, meaning a closed space or enclosure) and "phobia" (from Greek "phobos", meaning fear). The word describes the fear of closed or confined spaces.
Memory Tip
Think of 'claustrum' meaning a closed space, and 'phobia' meaning fear — this helps you remember that claustrophobic refers to the fear of being in closed spaces.
Visually Confused Words
astrophobia