coop up
Keep penned inside
To coop up is to confine in a small or cramped space, like chickens in a coop.
The phrase almost always appears in passive constructions expressing restlessness or frustration: I've been cooped up in this apartment all week.
Being cooped up suggests forced inactivity—stuck indoors, unable to move freely.
Barred confinement structure
- penInk-filled writing tool
- encloseShut in on all sides
- confineRestrict to boundaries
- trapDevice for catching animals
imprison · detain · restrain · quarantine · incarcerate · shut in · lock in · box in
Distress from extended confinement
- stir-crazyRestless from confinement
- houseboundUnable to leave home
- shut-inPerson confined indoors
- homeboundConfined to one's residence
secluded · withdrawn · cut off · separated · lonely · solitary · quarantined · isolated
Fearing confined spaces
- crowdedFilled beyond comfort
- stuffyLacking fresh air
- tightFirmly stretched or fitting
- squeezedPressed firmly together
constricted · cramped quarters · no room · boxed in · compressed · packed in · suffocating · stifling
cage
Barred confinement structure
trap · imprison · detain · restrain · quarantine · incarcerate · shut in · lock in · box in · hem in
cabin fever
Distress from extended confinement
- stir-crazyRestless from confinement
- houseboundUnable to leave home
- shut-inPerson confined indoors
homebound · secluded · withdrawn · cut off · separated · lonely · solitary · quarantined · isolated · walled off
claustrophobic
Fearing confined spaces
squeezed · constricted · cramped quarters · no room · boxed in · compressed · packed in · suffocating · stifling · airless
nest
Animal-built shelter for young
shelter · burrow · den · refuge · hideaway · snug · cozy · protected · safe · tucked away
up, coop, cooperation, cooperative, uncooperative, upping, coops, cooped, cooperator