inmates

word · lemma: inmate

/ˈɪnˌmeɪts/
IN-mayts
/ˈɪnmeɪts/
IN-mayts

Definition

People who are kept in a prison or jail because they have been found guilty of a crime or are waiting for trial.

Usage & Nuances

Almost always refers to people in prisons (not hospitals, except very rare historical uses). More formal or official than 'prisoner', but both have similar meaning. Used in media, legal, and official contexts.

Example Sentences

The inmates eat breakfast at 7 a.m. every day.

basic

Many inmates take classes to learn new skills while serving time.

natural

After the fight, all the inmates were sent back to their cells.

natural

The warden spoke to the inmates about improving behavior.

natural

Some inmates are allowed to work in the prison kitchen.

basic

The prison has 500 inmates at the moment.

basic