false imprisonment

noun

: imprisonment of a person contrary to law

Examples of false imprisonment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Her lawsuit alleges the LAPD’s actions constituted unlawful seizure, false imprisonment, excessive force, assault and negligence, among other rights violations. Libor Jany, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2024 Christopher Higginbotham, 39, pleaded guilty to a felony false imprisonment count for picking an 8-year-old boy up on March 22 along Newport Avenue. City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for false imprisonment 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'false imprisonment.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of false imprisonment was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near false imprisonment

Cite this Entry

“False imprisonment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/false%20imprisonment. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.

Legal Definition

false imprisonment

noun
: the tort of intentionally restraining another by physical force or the threat of physical force without privilege or authority see also false arrest at arrest

More from Merriam-Webster on false imprisonment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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