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.
However, was found not liable for false imprisonment and creating a hostile work environment. David Matthews, New York Daily News, 10 Apr. 2025 He was not found liable for false imprisonment or hostile work environment. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 10 Apr. 2025 The jury declined to award anything for the woman’s false imprisonment and hostile work environment claims, finding Way did not deprive her of her freedom or ability to resign. Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 10 Apr. 2025 McIsaac was convicted by a jury of two counts of kidnap to commit robbery, two counts of kidnapping for ransom, multiple counts of first-degree residential robbery, felony child abuse, false imprisonment and criminal threats, the district attorney’s office said. Lesley Cosme Torres, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“False imprisonment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/false%20imprisonment. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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