behind bars

VERB

serving jail time

Synonyms

WEAK

confined imprisoned in jail in prison incarcerated jailed put away serving time under lock and key

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Det Chf Insp Craig Kelly, the officer who led the investigation, said he was glad Milne was "behind bars, where he should be."

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Kornev’s tragedy is that, while he may not be behind bars, he can’t see the prison he’s trapped in.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Ryan was tried alongside Azerbaijani citizen Azad Mamedli, who was convicted of high treason and sentenced to 12 years behind bars.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026

"We have a history of brilliant law enforcement cooperation to put the criminal smuggling gangs where they belong – behind bars," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

Freedom means everything to him you will never get him behind bars again.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote