durance

noun

du·​rance ˈdu̇r-ən(t)s 

 also  ˈdyu̇r-

1

archaic : endurance

2

: restraint by or as if by physical force

—usually used in the phrase durance vile

Examples of durance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Garvey didn’t end up in durance vile, but he was fined $10,000 by the State Ethics Commission. —Howie Carr, Boston Herald, 10 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, duration, from Anglo-French, from durer to last from Latin durare

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for durance

• assurance
• insurance
• reassurance
• reinsurance

Kids Definition

durance

noun

du·​rance ˈd(y)u̇r-ən(t)s 

: the state of being restrained by or as if by physical force