First recorded in 1715–25
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
If convicted, he faces 32 years to life in state prison and would also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026
As a result, he could avoid spending time in state prison.
From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026
The maximum sentence for his charges is four years in state prison.
From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026
If convicted, Eyssallenne faces up to six years in state prison.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026
In the state system, less than 3 percent of new court commitments to state prison typically involve people convicted of homicide.
From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
