Synonyms for

Incarcerated

Verb / ˌɪˈnkɑ:rsɜ:ˌeɪtɪd / Another word for incarcerated — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Incarcerated means to be put in jail or prison.

Synonyms & similar words

incarcerate remand lag gaol putbehindbars imprison putaway immure jug jail jailed imprisoned confined detained incaged immured interned restrained captivated enjailed gaoled imprisoned jugged languished trapped caged

Synonyms by register

Formal

imprisoned confined detained jalled

Informal

locked up behind bars doing time in the slammer

Literary

enslaved bound caged

Antonyms

free released liberated unfettered acquitted discharged

Common collocations

  • sentenced to be incarcerated
  • remains incarcerated
  • recently incarcerated
  • forcibly incarcerated
  • illegally incarcerated
  • convicted and incarcerated
  • incarcerated for life

Word family

noun incarceration
verb incarcerate
adjective incarcerated

Usage note

This word specifically refers to being confined in a prison or jail as a punishment for a crime. It is a formal term and should not be confused with simply being detained for questioning.

Example sentences

  1. The criminal was incarcerated for his crime.
  2. She was incarcerated for a crime she didn't commit.
  3. He was incarcerated for stealing from the store.
  4. The judge ordered the man to be incarcerated for two years.
  5. The police officer arrested the suspect and had him incarcerated.

Quotes

  • Prison does not rehabilitate, it does not punish, it does not protect, so what the hell is it doing? - Rebecca Roache
  • The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons. - Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Prison is a mirror that reflects the society in which it exists. - Angela Davis

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