prison
/ˈpɹɪzn̩/ noun B1- A place or institution where people are held against their will, in the US especially for long-term confinement, as of those convicted of serious crimes or otherwise considered undesirable by the government. · The cold stone walls of the prison had stood for over a century.
- Confinement in prison (sense 1). · Prison was a harrowing experience for him.
- Any restrictive environment, such as a harsh academy or home. · The academy was a prison for many of its students because of its strict teachers.
Plural prisons
From the library
“You know that I am as capable of managing a ship as the most experienced captain in the service; and it will be so far advantageous to you to accept my services, that upon Edmond’s release from prison no further change will be requisite on board the Pharaon than for Dantès and myself each to resume our respective posts.”
The prisoner whom you there see pale, agitated, and alarmed, instead of—as is the case when a curtain falls on a tragedy—going home to sup peacefully with his family, and then retiring to rest, that he may recommence his mimic woes on the morrow,—is removed from your sight merely to be reconducted to his prison and delivered up to the executioner.
The larger the number of your family, the greater your cause of sorrow, in seeing them shut up in this prison-house.”
The Cowardly Lion was much pleased to hear that the Wicked Witch had been melted by a bucket of water, and Dorothy at once unlocked the gate of his prison and set him free.
Other matches
Learn prison in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.