prisoner

[priz-uh-ner, priz-ner]

noun

1. a person who is confined in prison or kept in custody, especially as the result of legal process.

2. prisoner of war.

3. a person or thing that is deprived of liberty or kept in restraint.

prisoner

/ ˈprɪzənə /

noun

1. a person deprived of liberty and kept in prison or some other form of custody as a punishment for a crime, while awaiting trial, or for some other reason

2. a person confined by any of various restraints

   we are all prisoners of time

3. informal,  to be uncompromising and resolute in one's actions

4. to capture and hold someone as a prisoner, esp as a prisoner of war

Word History and Origins

Origin of prisoner¹

1300–50; Middle English < Anglo-French. See prison, -er ²

Example Sentences

Hamas reiterated its call for a deal that would see hostages exchanged for Palestinian prisoners, Israeli forces withdraw, border crossings reopened, and the start of reconstruction.

From BBC

Beattie said "a chaperoning system" could be introduced for certain prisoners being considered for day release.

From BBC

Some 1,115 prisoners did start accredited treatment in prison and 1,094 people completed those courses.

From BBC

On Sunday, independent councillor Paul McCusker said there has been a "escalation of race attacks" in the area recently, adding that residents were living like "prisoners in their own home".

From BBC

Independent Councillor Paul McCusker said there has been a "escalation of race attacks" in the area recently, adding that residents are living like "prisoners in their own home".

From BBC

Related Words

• captive 
• convict 
• detainee 
• hostage