To keep or restrict someone or something within certain limits of space, scope, quantity, or time. The patient was confined to his room for the duration of his illness.
To imprison or detain someone in a place, especially as a punishment. The authorities decided to confine the suspect in a high-security facility.
To restrict or limit oneself to a particular activity or subject. She decided to confine her research to the effects of climate change on agriculture.
To go through childbirth; be in confinement (said of a woman, chiefly archaic). In the 19th century it was common for expectant mothers to be confined for several weeks before the birth.