behind bars

phrase

Synonyms of behind barsnext
: in jail
putting criminals behind bars

Examples of behind bars 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.
But, found standing over a dead body, Wanda ends up behind bars in Season 2. — Ed Meza, Variety, 14 Oct. 2026 The idea that criminals could serve sentences behind bars was a more progressive approach to justice in comparison. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 Imamoglu, who has been behind bars for more than a year, was considered the main challenger to Erdogan. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026 If found guilty on the five counts of bank fraud (which have maximum sentences of 30 years each), and the ID theft she was charged with in 2018, McDonnell could be facing 154 years behind bars. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for behind bars

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of behind bars was in 1861

Rhymes for behind bars

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Browse Nearby Words

behind
behind bars
behind closed doors
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Cite this Entry

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

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