Meaning & Definition of word "Captivity"

Captivity

/kæpˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/

noun:

  • 1. The state of being confined or imprisoned.
    • Example: The endangered species were kept in captivity to protect them from poachers.
  • 2. The condition of being held against one's will.
    • Example: After months in captivity, the hostages were finally rescued.
  • 3. The condition of being unable to leave a specific location or situation.
    • Example: He felt a strong sense of loneliness during his years of captivity in the remote area.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

in captivity:

Being held in a confined space.

out of captivity:

Having been freed from confinement.

Related Words

captor:

One who captures or confines another.

captivate:

To attract and hold the interest and attention of.

Slang Meanings of captivity

Meaning: Caught up in a situation.

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

Meaning: Stuck in a bad relationship.

Example Sentence: I felt like I was in captivity with my ex.