captivity

noun

cap·​tiv·​i·​ty kap-ˈti-və-tē 

1

: the state of being captive

some birds thrive in captivity

2

obsolete : a group of captives

Synonyms

• confinement
• immurement
• impoundment
• imprisonment
• incarceration
• internment
• prison

Examples of captivity in a Sentence

The prisoners were released from captivity.

the wildlife refuge raises endangered species in captivity and then releases them into the wild

Recent Examples on the Web

Though he was allowed to periodically shower, the captivity was otherwise severe. —Efrat Lachter, Fox News, 15 Mar. 2025

There has been indisputable and overwhelming evidence that Hamas systematically steals the aid, and uses it to advance their military goals, including the ongoing captivity of hostages. —William Lambers, Newsweek, 10 Mar. 2025

The Gaza ceasefire deal that took effect in January calls for the remaining 59 hostages in Hamas captivity to be freed in a second phase, during which final plans would be negotiated for an end to the war. —Reuters, NBC News, 8 Mar. 2025

Keith Siegel, the first American to be freed form Hamas captivity, will attend as a guest of Rep. Lisa McClain (R, Mich.). —Nik Popli, TIME, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing captivity

• in captivity

Rhymes for captivity

• acclivity
• activity
• declivity
• festivity
• nativity
• passivity
• proclivity
• absorptivity
• affectivity
• collectivity
• conductivity
• connectivity