Synonyms for

Prison

Verb / ˈprɪzʌn / Another word for prison — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a building where people are kept as a punishment for a crime they have committed

Synonyms & similar words

prisonhouse jail penitentiary lockup reformatory brig hoosegow clink cooler stir

Synonyms by register

Formal

penitentiary correctional facility detention center custodial institution

Informal

slammer clink stir hoosegow jailhouse

Literary

dungeon gaol keep

Antonyms

freedom liberty release escape emancipation exemption

Common collocations

  • serve prison sentence
  • escape from prison
  • prison cell
  • prison break
  • prison population
  • prison reform
  • prison sentence
  • life imprisonment

Word family

noun prison
verb imprison
adjective prisonable
adverb prisonward

Usage note

While 'prison' and 'jail' are often used interchangeably, 'prison' typically refers to a place for long-term incarceration after conviction, whereas 'jail' is usually for shorter sentences or pre-trial detention.

Example sentences

  1. The prisoner was released from prison after serving his sentence.
  2. He was afraid of going to prison for his actions.
  3. The prison was overcrowded and in poor condition.
  4. The guards at the prison were very strict with the inmates.
  5. She visited her brother in prison every week.

Quotes

  • Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.
  • I have never been to prison, but I have been to the ghetto.
  • I think the prison industrial complex is one of the greatest injustices in American history.

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