imprison etymology

Etymology and Origin of "Imprison"

The word "imprison" has its origins in the Old French word "emprisonner," which itself evolved from the Medieval Latin word "imprisionare." This Latin term combines the prefix "im-" (meaning "in") with the noun "prisio" (meaning "prison").

Meaning of "Imprison"

"Imprison" primarily means to confine or detain someone against their will within a prison or other secure facility. It typically involves deprivation of liberty and isolation from society.

Additional Meanings:

  • To confine or restrict someone's freedom of movement, even if not within a prison setting.
  • To trap or hold something captive, such as a concept or idea.

Synonyms:

  • Incarcerate
  • Jail
  • Confine
  • Restrict
  • Detain

Evolution of the Word

The term "imprison" has been used for centuries to describe the act of confinement. Its original meaning in Medieval Latin referred to the specific imprisonment within a physical prison. Over time, the meaning expanded to include a broader range of scenarios where freedom is restricted.

Today, the word "imprison" is widely used in legal and criminal contexts, as well as in more general situations where someone's freedom is compromised.

imprison relate terms

  • prison

    Etymology The word prison comes from the Old French word prison which in turn comes

  • prize

    Etymology The word prize comes from the Middle English word pris which in turn is d

  • imprisonment

    Etymology From Middle English emprisonement from Old French emprisonement from empris

  • imprison

    Etymology and Origin of Imprison The word imprison has its origins in the Old French

  • jail

    Etymology The word jail derives from the Old French word jaiole or gaiole which i

  • send up

    Etymology Prefix send from Old English sendan meaning to send dispatch Suffix up

  • incarceration

    Etymology The word incarceration comes from the Latin incarcerare meaning to impri

  • snow

    Etymology The English word snow is derived from Proto Germanic snaiwaz which is belie

  • remand

    Etymology Middle English remanden from Anglo Norman French re back mander sen

  • gaol

    Etymology The word gaol originates from the Old North French word gaole meaning ca

  • goal

    Etymology The word goal derives from the Old French word gole meaning throat or

  • detain

    Etymology Old French detenir Latin detinere from detinere to detain hold back Pre