false imprisonment

noun

: imprisonment of a person contrary to law

Examples of false imprisonment 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 Robinsons are also accused of false imprisonment and numerous labor violations. Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 7 May 2025 He was arrested in connection with kidnapping, false imprisonment, child abuse, robbery and battery charges, deputies said. Sara Schilling, Sacbee.com, 7 May 2025 He has been charged with misdemeanor battery and felony false imprisonment, jail records show. Mark Price, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2025 Tisci is accused of violating New York's Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law, intentionally inflicting emotional distress, battery, assault and false imprisonment. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for false imprisonment

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

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Cite this Entry

“False imprisonment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/false%20imprisonment. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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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