prisoners

NOUN

person jailed for crime; person kept against his or her will

Synonyms

STRONGEST

captive convict detainee hostage

STRONG

con culprit internee jailbird lag lifer loser tough yardbird

WEAK

chain gang member

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.

There’s no serious argument that these state officials were blind to the consequences that might come from violating the rights of the prisoners they’re in charge of.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2026

That law, the high court said, doesn’t allow prisoners to sue officers for money.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 23, 2026

Later on Tuesday he will have his breakfast on the landing with other prisoners on the wing.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

Officials have decontaminated the facility’s inmate housing as a precaution and medical staff are monitoring prisoners and staff for possible symptoms, The Mercury News reported.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

I ask for Henek, but the guard isn’t much bothered whether I talk to the prisoners or not.

From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron