behind bars

VERB

serving jail time

Synonyms

WEAK

confined imprisoned in jail in prison incarcerated jailed put away serving time under lock and key

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Activists who have spent several years behind bars in Cuba say being imprisoned for so long leaves a permanent scar.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

The money, in their view, not only has to make up for mounting legal fees, but lost income, tainted reputations, fractured families, and years spent behind bars.

From Slate • May 28, 2026

The 86-year-old disbarred lawyer, once the most prominent trial attorney in California, will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars after being convicted of wire fraud last year.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

The difference shapes how much time Sharifullah could spend behind bars — the more serious charge was eligible for a life sentence.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

I’m glad Emma is comfortable talking to me, but I don’t like to think about her dad living behind bars.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller