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Definitions

jailhouse

[jeyl-hous] / ˈdʒeɪlˌhaʊs /
NOUN
jail
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cell lockup penitentiary prison
STRONG
bastille brig bullpen can clink cooler dungeon inside joint pen pound rack reformatory slammer solitary stir stockade
WEAK
black hole detention camp house of correction penal institution up the river
NOUN
pokey
Synonyms
STRONG
bastille brig bullpen can cell clink cooler dungeon inside joint keep lockup pen penitentiary pound prison rack reformatory slammer solitary stir stockade
WEAK
black hole detention camp house of correction penal institution up the river
NOUN
stockade
Synonyms
STRONG
barrier cage camp can cell clink cooler coop corral dungeon fence joint pen penitentiary pound prison protection slammer sty
WEAK
detention camp penal institution

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.

To convict him, the state relied on the testimony of a paid jailhouse informant, while no physical evidence suggested he was present at the crime scene.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

Alarmed by the growing jailhouse fraternity, authorities tightened prison controls and transferred inmates to other states.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

Ryan won an award from the New York Press Club in 2018 for coverage of a jailhouse informant scandal in Detroit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

The use of jailhouse informants is not an uncommon, or illegal, tactic and tool used by law enforcement.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 29, 2025

We got a brand-new jailhouse, did you notice?

From "Tuck Everlasting" by Natalie Babbit