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.
Nineteen state prison systems are using digital tools and artificial intelligence from nonprofit Recidiviz to consolidate scattered prisoner data.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 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
Cristian Alejandro Solorio Anguiano of Modesto, 28, received the maximum sentence under California law of six years and eight months in state prison, according to an announcement from the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026
The bill created dozens of new federal capital crimes, mandated life sentences for some “three-strikers,” and authorized more than $16 billion for state prison grants and expansion of state and local police forces.
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.
