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Synonyms

imprisonment

American  
[im-priz-uhn-muhnt] / ɪmˈprɪz ən mənt /

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.

Etymology

Origin of imprisonment

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

Example Sentences

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 in either court he faces life imprisonment without parole.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Seven of the defendants -- who include former intelligence agents, soldiers and businessmen -- risk life imprisonment.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The former special constable was sentenced at Aylesbury Crown Court on Friday to a total of 32 years, made up of 24 years' imprisonment and a further eight years on extended licence.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Although criminal cases can sometimes lead to restitution, they tend to move more slowly, focus more on imprisonment than repayment, and require a higher standard of proof.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

Before the week is out, he will be facing the possibility of life imprisonment.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater

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.