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.
The decision means Grayson, who is roughly six months into a 20-year prison sentence, will remain behind bars. — Jerry Nowicki, CBS News, 31 July 2026 The maximum sentence that Colin Gray faces is more than 280 years behind bars, his lawyers said in a court filing. — Shaddi Abusaid, AJC.com, 30 July 2026 If convicted on all 12 counts, Mulhern could face up to 300 years behind bars. — Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026 The story follows a billionaire art thief who falls in love with the insurance agent trying to put him behind bars. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 29 July 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 1 Aug. 2026.

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