prison
UK: ˈprɪz(ə)n | US: ˈprɪz(ə)n
n. a facility where individuals are confined as punishment for crimes
n. a state of captivity or loss of freedom
vt. (archaic) to confine someone in a prison
The word "prison" traces back to Old French prisoun, derived from Latin prehensionem (a seizing or capturing). The root pris- reflects the act of taking or confining, while -on serves as a noun-forming suffix. Over time, the term evolved from the abstract concept of "capture" to specifically denote a place of confinement. The logic mirrors the progression from action (seizing) to result (the place where seized individuals are held).
The criminal was sentenced to ten years in prison.
She felt trapped in a prison of her own fears.
(Archaic) The king would prison his enemies in the tower.
The documentary exposed the harsh conditions of the prison.
Escape from the high-security prison seemed impossible.