imprisonment

[im-priz-uhn-muhnt]

noun

1. the act of confining in or as if in a prison; the state of being so confined.

   Identity theft and computer fraud are criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment.

   Winter up there means cumbersome living and imprisonment in an icy hell.

Word History and Origins

Origin of imprisonment¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; from Old French emprisonnement, equivalent to imprison ( def. ) + -ment ( def. )

Example Sentences

She has been told a "substantial" sum of money is needed to free her or reduce her sentence, which could be up to 20 years in jail or life imprisonment.

From BBC

The jury took only about an hour to clear the Grammy-winning rapper of the allegations of assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress as well as negligence and false imprisonment.

From BBC

Ms Ellis sued the star in 2020 for assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress as well as negligence and false imprisonment.

From BBC

Ellis filed suit in 2020, alleging assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress as well as negligence and false imprisonment.

From Los Angeles Times

The force said they had been charged with an offence under section 13 of the Terrorism Act and faced a maximum sentence of six months' imprisonment.

From BBC

Related Words

• captivity 
• confinement 
• custody 
• incarceration 
• isolation