Definition

The state of being kept in a place, usually a prison, as a punishment for a crime.

Example

The judge sentenced him to five years of imprisonment for his actions.

Conversation

I just read a book about the consequences of imprisonment on people's lives.

That sounds interesting! It must have been tough to read.

Yeah, it really showed how imprisonment can affect families too.

Absolutely, the impact goes far beyond just the individual.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Imprisonment is formed from "in-" (meaning in or into), "prison" (from Old French *prison*, meaning a place of confinement), and "-ment" (meaning the action or result of). The word refers to the act or state of being confined within a prison.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'in' ('in-') a 'place of confinement' ('prison') — that's what imprisonment means.

Visually Confused Words