English Reference
adjective · verb

confined

adj. · v.
US /kənˈfaɪnd/ UK /kənfˈaɪnd/ con·fined

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.describes a space that is very small or narrow, making you feel trapped.

    adj.describing a space that is limited in extent or narrow, often creating a sense of enclosure.

    Simple

    It was difficult to work in such a confined space with three other people.

    In context

    The researchers had to operate in the confined quarters of the submarine for six months, which tested their psychological endurance.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    adj.forced to stay in a place, often a bed or a wheelchair, because of illness or injury.

    adj.restricted to a specific location or piece of furniture due to physical incapacity or medical necessity.

    Simple

    After his surgery, he was confined to a wheelchair for several weeks.

    In context

    The patient remained confined to her bed while the doctors monitored the effects of the new medication on her heart rate.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to keep someone or something inside a certain area or to limit an activity.

    v.to keep or restrict someone or something within certain limits of space, scope, or quantity.

    Simple

    The police confined the protesters to a small area outside the park.

    In context

    The discussion was strictly confined to the financial aspects of the merger, ignoring the potential cultural impact on the employees.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice with the preposition 'to'.

Usage confined to their homes · confined to an area

It begins with Schaal confined to a cardboard refrigerator-cum-horsebox, shyly announcing herself to the crowd.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

The process is very similar to how a typical tornado forms, though fire tornadoes tend to be smaller and, because they feed off the heat, confined to the fire area.

The Conversation· 30 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated