Claustrophobic describes the uncomfortable, panicky feeling you get in tight or crowded spaces where you feel trapped. Someone who feels claustrophobic in an elevator might get sweaty palms, a racing heart, or an urgent need to get out. A small closet, a packed subway car, or even a room with no windows might trigger this feeling.

You don't need to have a serious phobia to feel claustrophobic sometimes. Many people feel a bit claustrophobic in certain situations, like crawling through a narrow cave tunnel or sitting in the middle seat of a crowded airplane row.

The word can also describe spaces themselves. A claustrophobic room is one that feels too small, dark, or stuffy, with low ceilings or walls that seem to close in. A basement with tiny windows might feel claustrophobic even if you're alone in it.

Crowded open spaces can feel claustrophobic too. A crowd so thick you can't move freely might make you feel just as trapped as being in a small room.