Cabin fever

Meaning

Restlessness from confinement.

Usage

Used when people feel trapped indoors.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Sailors trapped below deck experienced similar boredom.

Documented in the 1800s as a winter ailment.