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.

Prisoners released into the numbered cell blocks were packed into overcrowded cells, starting their day with a head count and cooking meals together in shared kitchens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

They were successful and, in May 2024, section 18 of the Victim and Prisoners Act 2024- Jade's Law - was one of the last to be passed before the general election.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

The Prisoners for Palestine campaign group identified the inmate as Muhammad Umer Khalid, 22, who they say began a thirst strike on Friday.

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2026

Prisoners rejoiced upon hearing the news, but outside their relatives were tense on Saturday morning, fearing guards might punish inmates for celebrating.

From Barron's • Jan. 10, 2026

No. "My name is Bryan Stevenson. I'm a legal intern with the Southern Prisoners Defense Committee, and I've been instructed to inform you that you will not be executed soon."

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson