3 meanings: (kənˈfaɪn ) 1. to keep or close within bounds; limit; restrict 2. to keep shut in; restrict the free movement of.... Click for more definitions. The adjective confined describes a space that is cramped or small and constricted. You probably don't see any claustrophobic vampires because if they were claustrophobic, they'd have a fear of confined spaces — like their coffins. The meaning of CONFINE is something (such as borders or walls) that encloses; also : something that restrains. How to use confine in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Confine. CONFINE meaning: 1. to limit an activity, person, or problem in some way: 2. to keep someone closed in a place…. Learn more.