behind bars

phrase

Synonyms of behind barsnext
: in jail
putting criminals behind bars

Examples of behind bars in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The cases include five inmates killed behind bars and assaults against staff and inmates. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 2026 Bomfim pleaded not guilty to charges and remains behind bars in lieu of $500,000, according to the release. — Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026 Only Mississippi and Louisiana have more people behind bars per capita. — Arkansas Online, 27 Oct. 2026 Morley was convicted in February 2025 and sentenced to life behind bars. — Dennis Romero, NBC news, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for 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

Rhymes for behind bars

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Browse Nearby Words

behind
behind bars
behind closed doors
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Cite this Entry

“Behind bars.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind%20bars. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.

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