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Definition of claustrophobia

claustrophobia

/ˌklɔː.strəˈfoʊ.bi.ə/
claus · tro · pho · bi · a
Adverb:claustrophobically
•
Adjective:claustrophobic
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claustrophobia Lexical Profile

claustrophobia Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An extreme or irrational fear of confined, narrow, or enclosed places.

Example

"Because of her severe claustrophobia, she always takes the stairs instead of riding in a crowded elevator."

2

A stifling feeling of restriction, suffocation, or lack of freedom caused by an oppressive environment or situation.

Example

"After living in the tiny, isolated village for five years, a sense of social claustrophobia drove him to move to the city."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for claustrophobia

• Nearby Words

claudius
clause
claustrophobe
claustrophobia
claustrophobic
claves
clavichord

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century by Italian physician Andrea Verga and popularized by French physician Benjamin Ball, combining Latin claustrum ('an enclosed place, bolt, or barrier') with Greek -phobia ('fear').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Claustrophobia. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/claustrophobia
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