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.
A onetime California oil boomtown about 60 miles southwest of Fresno, Avenal has spent decades off the beaten track, known more for its pistachios and sprawling state prison than for political upheaval.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026
Under RLUIPA, Justice Neil Gorsuch writes, state prison systems that take federal money must agree not to substantially burden religious exercise.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 23, 2026
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
If convicted as charged, Sanchez and Boyaca each face six years in state prison, while Rivera-Chacon faces 17 years in state prison.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 20, 2026
Papa looked grim, like he was driving me to the state prison, so I didn’t press him on what Mrs. had waiting for me.
From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia
State prison systems across the country are facing a daunting challenge: finding ways to keep people from returning to prison when an estimated 40% end up back behind bars within three years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
State prison officials attached a staggering $1-billion price tag to last year’s bill after estimating the new restrictions would require additional programming space and an expansion of exercise yards and more staff.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 20, 2023
State prison populations have fallen by 15 percent since the pandemic began, according to the Prison Policy Initiative, but not because inmates are being released to home confinement.
From New York Times ● Feb. 27, 2021
State prison officials have said they cannot comment on any individual prisoner’s medical record.
From Reuters ● Apr. 9, 2020
It was used as the great Banqueting-hall when the Tower was the Royal Palace, as well as the fortress, the State prison, the Mint, the Armory, and the Record Office.
From John and Betty's History Visit by Williamson, Margaret
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.
