Claustrophobe

/ˈklɔːstrəfoʊb/ noun

Definition

A person who has claustrophobia; someone who experiences fear or anxiety in enclosed or confined spaces.

Etymology

From Latin claustrum (enclosed space) + Greek -phobos (fear). The term emerged in the 19th century as psychology identified and named specific phobias.

Kelly Says

Claustrophobes helped psychologists understand that fear isn't always logical—a spacious elevator might feel safer than a cramped one even though both are equally safe, proving our minds create the threat.

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