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claustrophobia

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Dictionary definition of claustrophobia

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of enclosed or tight spaces.
"The elevator ride triggered his claustrophobia causing him to panic."

Detailed meaning of claustrophobia

People with claustrophobia experience a sense of panic or anxiety when they find themselves in small, enclosed spaces such as elevators, tunnels, or small rooms. This fear can be so severe that it interferes with daily life, causing people to avoid certain places or activities altogether. Common triggers for claustrophobia include enclosed public spaces such as airplanes, trains and subways, and even being in a small room or being close to others. The physical symptoms of claustrophobia can include an increased heart rate, sweating, trembling and difficulty breathing. Claustrophobia is typically treated with therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication.

Example sentences containing claustrophobia

1. Her claustrophobia made it challenging for her to ride in elevators.
2. The narrow, crowded room triggered a sense of claustrophobia in some attendees.
3. He felt a wave of claustrophobia wash over him as the doors of the airplane closed.
4. The character's fear of enclosed spaces added depth to his struggle with claustrophobia.
5. The therapist used exposure therapy to help her overcome her claustrophobia.
6. The cave tour was a test of his claustrophobia, but he managed to conquer his fear.

History and etymology of claustrophobia

The noun 'claustrophobia' has its etymological roots in two Latin words: 'claustrum,' meaning 'a confined place' or 'enclosure,' and 'phobos,' meaning 'fear.' 'Claustrophobia' refers to a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense and irrational fear of enclosed or tight spaces. The term embodies the concept of an overwhelming and often debilitating fear response triggered by situations where one perceives a lack of escape or confinement. 'Claustrophobia' reflects the human experience of anxiety and the powerful emotional reactions that certain environments or situations can elicit. It underscores the profound impact of fear and the need for understanding and support for individuals dealing with this specific type of anxiety disorder.

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Further usage examples of claustrophobia

1. The movie scene set in a confined space gave the audience a taste of claustrophobia.
2. Her heart raced as she entered the small, windowless room, her claustrophobia taking hold.
3. The tight, crowded subway car triggered his claustrophobia, causing him to exit at the next station.
4. The architect designed the office with open spaces to accommodate employees with claustrophobia.
5. The haunted house attraction played on people's fears, including claustrophobia.
6. She carried a small fidget toy to help manage her claustrophobia during long flights.
7. The MRI machine's tight enclosure intensified his feelings of claustrophobia.
8. The documentary explored the origins and effects of claustrophobia on individuals.
9. The elevator's sudden jolt triggered her claustrophobia, causing her to panic.
10. The character's claustrophobia made it difficult for him to explore caves or tunnels.
11. He sought therapy to address his claustrophobia and improve his quality of life.
12. The cruise ship's spacious cabins were a relief for those with claustrophobia.
13. The tight, crowded concert venue exacerbated her claustrophobia, making her anxious.
14. The support group provided a safe space for individuals to share their experiences with claustrophobia.