captivity

noun

cap·​tiv·​i·​ty kap-ˈti-və-tē 

1

: the state of being captive

Some birds thrive in captivity.

2

obsolete : a group of captives

Synonyms of captivity

• internment
• imprisonment
• incarceration
• confinement
• prison

Examples of captivity in a Sentence

The prisoners were released from captivity.

the wildlife refuge raises endangered species in captivity and then releases them into the wild

Recent Examples on the Web

As the search for Sita continues, Hanuman assumes a leading role in locating her in Lanka and informs Rama of her captivity. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026

In 1987, biologists captured the last free-flying condor to transfer it to captivity, and the largest flying North American bird species was officially declared extinct in the wild. — David Ginsburg, The Conversation, 20 Oct. 2026

But their local expertise, connections, courage, and instincts could stave off death or captivity. — Ben Taub, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026

Regev directly countered Piker's claims about the October 7 attacks by delivering a harrowing eyewitness account of her captivity in Gaza. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing captivity

• in captivity

Rhymes for captivity

• acclivity
• activity
• declivity
• festivity
• nativity
• passivity
• proclivity
• absorptivity
• affectivity
• collectivity
• conductivity
• connectivity