Captivity

/kæpˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The state of being confined or imprisoned.

The endangered species were kept in captivity to protect them from poachers.

The condition of being held against one's will.

After months in captivity, the hostages were finally rescued.

The condition of being unable to leave a specific location or situation.

He felt a strong sense of loneliness during his years of captivity in the remote area.

From Middle English 'captivite', from Old French 'captivite', from Latin 'captivitas', from 'captivus' meaning 'taken captive'

in captivity:

Being held in a confined space.

out of captivity:

Having been freed from confinement.

Caught up in a situation.

That meeting felt like captivity; I couldn't escape.

Stuck in a bad relationship.

I felt like I was in captivity with my ex.