Jail Meaning and Definition
Jail
Pronunciation
/dʒeɪl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A building or facility for confining people who have been arrested or convicted of a crime, often as a punishment or while awaiting trial.
Examples
- The suspect was taken to jail pending further investigation.
- The judge sentenced him to three years in jail for the crime.
Synonyms
- Prison
- Penitentiary
Antonyms
- Freedom
- Liberty
Additional Information
Jails typically provide basic necessities such as food, shelter, and medical care to inmates. They may also offer rehabilitation programs, counseling services, and educational opportunities to help individuals prepare for reintegration into society. Jails can be run by local, state, or federal authorities, and the length of stay can vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime.
In some cases, jails may be used as temporary holding facilities for individuals awaiting trial or transfer to a prison. They may also serve as a place for individuals to serve short sentences or pay fines.
Etymology
The word “jail” comes from the Old French “gaiole,” which is derived from the Latin “cavea,” meaning “cage” or “enclosure.”
Usage Notes
In American English, “jail” is often used to refer to local or county-level correctional facilities, while “prison” typically refers to state or federal institutions. In British English, “prison” is used more frequently for all types of correctional facilities.
Cultural References
Jails have been featured prominently in numerous films, television shows, and books, often as settings for dramatic or comedic storylines. Examples include the TV show “Orange is the New Black” and the movie “The Shawshank Redemption.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Jailbreak” (to escape from prison)
- “Jailbird” (a person who has been in prison)
Related Words or Phrases
- Penitentiary
- Correctional facility
- Incarceration
Collocations
- “in jail”
- “go to jail”
- “jail sentence”
Frequency of Use
The word “jail” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in news reports and conversations about crime and justice.
Common Misspellings
- “jale”
- “jael”
- “jayl”