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.
He was charged with abduction, kidnapping, false imprisonment, and committing an indictable offence whilst on bail, according to the outlets. — Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 In 2022, Tyler was arrested and later charged with first-degree rape, simple robbery, domestic-abuse battery, and false imprisonment. — Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, 16 June 2026 Tyler had originally been charged with first-degree rape, along with false imprisonment, simple robbery, domestic abuse battery by strangulation and criminal damage to property. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 17 June 2026 Kemp did mention that these allegations were different from those that led to the sheriff being charged with false imprisonment, simple battery, and violation of oath of office in 2025. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 29 June 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

false hybrid
false imprisonment
false indigo
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Cite this Entry

“False imprisonment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/false%20imprisonment. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about false imprisonment

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