captivity

noun

cap·​tiv·​i·​ty kap-ˈti-və-tē How to pronounce captivity (audio)
Synonyms of captivity
1
: the state of being captive
Some birds thrive in captivity.
2
obsolete : a group of captives

Synonyms of captivity

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Examples of captivity in a Sentence

The prisoners were released from captivity. the wildlife refuge raises endangered species in captivity and then releases them into the wild
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.
Will Matt Damon suffer in his captivity, or enjoy it? — David Denby, New Yorker, 21 June 2026 Would Rhaenyra’s Syrax — a formidably sized dragon, albeit one raised in captivity — be able to torch them all? — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 22 June 2026 At least 80 school children are still in captivity after being abducted by militants in the southern and northern regions of the country. — ABC News, 24 June 2026 There is also the mystery around the captivity of Otto Hightower, Alicent’s father. — Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for captivity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of captivity was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing captivity

Rhymes for captivity

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Browse Nearby Words

captive bolt
captivity
captopril
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Cite this Entry

“Captivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/captivity. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on captivity

Nglish: Translation of captivity for Spanish Speakers

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