close in on (someone or something)

close in on (someone or something)

1. To physically surround, encircle, or approach someone or something. As the opposing troops closed in on us, I knew we would never win the battle. When I'm in a small space for too long, I start to feel as though the walls are closing in on me.
2. To overwhelm or engulf someone, as of emotions. For a long time, I couldn't drive because feelings of fear closed in on me every time I got behind the wheel.
3. To approach very quickly or become imminent, as of a deadline or other requirement. I procrastinated, and now the deadline for my paper is really closing in on me! The threat of war seems to be closing in on the turbulent region.
See also: close, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • close in
  • close (in) around (someone or something)
  • close around
  • wreathe around
  • wreathe around (something)
  • wreathe in
  • wreathe
  • wreathe (someone or something) in (something)
  • wreathe (someone or something) with (something)
  • surround