Pronunciation: ' kl ō z-
Function: transitive verb
Date: 14th century
1 : to encircle closely and isolate
2 : to enshroud to such an extent as to preclude entrance or exit <the airport was closed in by the storm>
intransitive verb
1 : to gather in close all around with an oppressing or isolating effect <despair closed in on her>
2 : to approach to close quarters especially for an attack, raid, or arrest <the police closed in >
3 : to grow dark <the short November day was already closing in ― Ellen Glasgow>