v. & n.
--v.tr. (often foll. by in, to, within)
1. keep or restrict (within certain limits etc.).
2 hold captive; imprison.
--n. (usu. in pl.) a limit or boundary (within the confines of the town).
Phrases and idioms:
be confined be in childbirth.
Etymology: (v.) f. F confiner, (n.) ME f. F confins (pl.), f. L confinia (as com-, finia neut. pl. f. finis end, limit)