prisoners

word · lemma: prisoner

/ˈpɹɪzənɝz/
PRI-zuh-nurz
/pɹˈɪzənəz/
PRI-zuh-nuhz

Definition

Prisoners are people who are kept in prison, especially because they have been found guilty of a crime. The word can also refer more generally to people who are not free to leave a place or situation.

Usage & Nuances

Usually refers to people in prison, while 'prisoner' can also appear in phrases like 'a prisoner of war' or 'a prisoner of his own fears'. 'Prisoners' is a countable plural noun; in everyday English, 'inmates' is also common in prison contexts.

Example Sentences

The police moved the prisoners to another building.

basic

The documentary follows former prisoners as they try to rebuild their lives.

natural

In war movies, the prisoners are often shown as frightened and exhausted.

natural

The prisoners ate dinner at six o’clock.

basic

Some prisoners can study while they are in jail.

basic

The guard treated the prisoners with respect, which surprised everyone.

natural