behind bars

phrase

Definition of behind barsnext
as in imprisoned
taken and held prisoner The con artist was behind bars for printing fake checks.

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of behind bars But that didn't keep Gilberto from visiting his ex-wife while behind bars. — Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2026 The vote followed a lengthy discussion by council members who debated whether selling the detention center was in the best interest of Atlanta, its residents or the detainees who would be held behind bars. — Shaddi Abusaid, AJC.com, 20 Oct. 2026 Citing the group Prisoners Defenders, Fly said more than 1,300 political prisoners remain behind bars. — Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2026 During his time at FCI Fort Dix, Combs was reportedly living a pampered lifestyle behind bars. — Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for behind bars

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behind
behind bars
behindhand
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Cite this Entry

“Behind bars.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/behind%20bars. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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