Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

behind-bars

phrase

/bɪˈhaɪnd bɑrz/

Definition

Incarcerated or confined in a prison or jail.

Examples

The thief found himself behind bars after a short police chase.
Many people in this documentary will share their experiences of life behind bars.
He was sentenced to five years behind bars for his crimes.

Meaning

The phrase ‘behind bars’ refers to the state of being imprisoned, where one is physically held within a cell or a secure facility away from the freedom of society.