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Definition of imprison

imprison

/ɪmˈprɪz.ən/
im · pris · on
Adjective:imprisoned
•
Past Simple:imprisoned
•
Past Participle:imprisoned
•
Present Participle:imprisoning
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imprison Lexical Profile

imprison Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To put or keep someone in a prison or a similar place of lawful or unlawful detention.

Example

"The authorities decided to imprison the convicted fraudster for five years."

2

To trap, enclose, or restrict something or someone tightly so that escape or free movement is impossible.

Example

"Thick layers of polar ice can imprison ancient air bubbles for thousands of years."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for imprison

• Rhymes for imprison

• Nearby Words

impressment
imprint
imprinting
imprison
imprisonable
imprisoner
imprisonment

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 14th century from Anglo-French and Old French 'emprisoner', formed from the prefix 'en-' (in, into) and 'prison' (captivity, place of detention), ultimately tracing back to Latin 'prensio', meaning a seizing or arresting.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Imprison. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/imprison
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