Being behind bars is a phrase that is commonly used to describe someone who is incarcerated or imprisoned. It has become a popular term that is often used in movies, TV shows, and even in everyday conversations. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of behind bars, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
The phrase behind bars is defined as being confined or imprisoned. It is used to describe someone who is incarcerated in a jail or prison. The term is often used to describe the physical barrier that separates an inmate from the outside world.
Origin
The origin of the phrase behind bars is not clear. However, it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The phrase was commonly used in the United States during the 1800s to describe prisoners who were confined to their cells.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford Dictionary, behind bars means “confined in prison or jail.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “being imprisoned.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “being in prison.”
Associations
The phrase behind bars is often associated with criminal activity and punishment. It is also associated with the loss of freedom and the inability to move freely. The phrase is commonly used in news reports, movies, and TV shows to describe the incarceration of criminals.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for behind bars, including:
- Imprisoned.
- Incarcerated.
- Locked up.
- Jailed.
- Confined.
Antonyms
The antonyms of behind bars include:
- Free.
- Released.
- Unconfined.
- At liberty.
- Unrestricted.
The same root words
The phrase behind bars does not have any root words. However, the word “bar” is derived from the Old French word “barre,” which means “a barrier.”
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase behind bars:
- The criminal was sentenced to 10 years behind bars.
- He spent 20 years of his life behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit.
- The murderer will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
- She was relieved to be released from behind bars after serving her sentence.
- The thief was caught and put behind bars for stealing from the store.