behind bars

phrase

Synonyms of behind bars next

next

: in jail

putting criminals behind bars

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of behind bars was in 1861

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Browse Nearby Words

behind

behind bars

behind closed doors

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Behind bars.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind%20bars. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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