Prisoner

Definition

Prisoner is a noun that refers to a person who is confined in a prison or under arrest, often as a punishment for a crime or while awaiting trial.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɪz.ən.ɚ/
• Respelling: PRIZ-uh-ner

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɪz.ən.ə/
• Respelling: PRIZ-uh-nuh

Etymology

The word "prisoner" originates from the Old French "prisonnier," meaning "captive," derived from "prison," which in turn comes from the Latin "prehendere," meaning "to seize" or "to capture." It entered Middle English in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Imprison (verb)
• Imprisonment (noun)
• Prison (noun)
• Prisonlike (adjective)
• Ex-prisoner (noun)

Synonyms

• Inmate
• Detainee
• Captive

Antonyms

• Free person
• Citizen
• None

Usage

The term "prisoner" is widely used in legal, criminal justice, and societal contexts. Examples include "The prisoner was released on parole" and "He was a prisoner of war during the conflict."

Related Terms

• Prison: A place of confinement for those convicted of crimes.
• Captivity: The state of being held against one's will.
• Detention: The act of holding someone in custody.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person confined in a prison: Refers to someone serving a sentence or awaiting trial in a correctional facility.
  • Example: "The prisoner served ten years for robbery."
• Someone held captive: Refers to a person who is forcibly detained, often during war or kidnapping.
  • Example: "The soldiers were taken as prisoners of war."
• A person restricted by circumstances: Used metaphorically to describe someone constrained by conditions or emotions.
  • Example: "She felt like a prisoner in her own home."