This adjective has been known in Russia since the 11th century; its meaning was then the same as it is now. According to the basic explanatory dictionaries of the Russian language, the word “cramped” has six meanings.
Space
The first meaning of the lexeme can be interpreted with the help of the synonyms "limited, narrow, non-spacious." The space, the volume in which there is not enough space, is characterized as cramped: cramped house, courtyard, kubrick, wigwam, cramped apartment, street, tent. Example: "The path to the office of Ivan Ilyich ran through a cramped entrance hall."
Accommodation
Synonyms of the second meaning of this word are the lexemes "tight, compact, slimy, crowded, closed." In this case, the meaning of the word indicates objects located close to each other: close formation, row, close hugs. Example: "We went to the demonstration in a crowded crowd."
The size
The third meaning of the word “cramped” can be put on a par with the synonyms of “squeezing, kurguzy, narrow, not free”. That is, it is something that has a size smaller than necessary, something uncomfortable, fettering movement. In this sense, the word is most often used in relation to shoes and clothes: tight pants, boots, etc. Examples: “Sema funny waving his hands, his shoes were worn, his jacket was tight.” "A tight collar squeezed his neck, preventing him from working."
Relations
The next group of meanings is metaphors. Close are very close relationships. Synonyms: "intimate, intimate." Then they talk about close connection, friendship, close communication, cooperation. Example: “My parents and teachers learned about my close relationships with believers.” A narrow circle of like-minded people, united by common interests and including a few, is also, of course, close.
Close contact and influence
Very close to the above value adjoins another - indicating the mutual influence of one phenomenon (concept) on another. In this context, we can talk about the close connection of atoms and molecules, flora and fauna, man and nature, etc. Images recreated by artists of different countries and eras are closely related to the mores and ideals of their time. Example: "All the actions of a rational person are closely related to his moral values."
Everyday difficulties
And another lexical meaning of this word is to characterize complex life circumstances and difficulties. Examples: "I am extremely constrained by the means." “Due to debts we are in a tight position.”
Grammar portrait of the word
This is a high-quality adjective that can be inclined, has degrees of comparison, as well as a short and complete form. The reinforced connotation is conveyed by the combination of "close-close" or the word "pretentious".
The lexeme corresponds in its various meanings to such phraseological units: “there is no place to fall for an apple”, “it bursts at the seams”, “do not spill water”.