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.
Karkar was booked at the San Francisco County Jail on charges of rape by force or violence, false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon, first-degree robbery, and damaging a wireless communication device. Stepheny Price, Fox News, 5 Feb. 2025 Now, a jury has found Stephen Earl Guice, 51, of Seaside, guilty of forcible rape and false imprisonment stemming from the April incident, the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office said in Feb. 3 news release. Daniella Segura, Sacramento Bee, 4 Feb. 2025 Bryan was found guilty of felony murder, one count of aggravated assault, false imprisonment and criminal attempt to commit a felony. Dakin Andone, CNN, 21 Jan. 2025 Muhammed was found guilty of multiple counts of torture, felony child abuse and false imprisonment, among others. Elaine Aradillas, People.com, 18 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near false imprisonment

Cite this Entry

“False imprisonment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/false%20imprisonment. Accessed 16 Feb. 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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