Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Claustrophobia
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Claustrophobia: An abnormal and persistent fear of closed spaces, of being closed in or being shut in, as in elevators, tunnels, or any other confined space. The fear is excessive (and quite common).
The word "claustrophobia" is an amalgam made from the Latin "claudere", to shut + the Greek "phobis", fear.