captivity

noun

cap·​tiv·​i·​ty kap-ˈti-və-tē How to pronounce captivity (audio)
Synonyms of captivity
1
: the state of being captive
Some birds thrive in captivity.
2
obsolete : a group of captives

Synonyms of captivity

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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
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 raiders’ prisoners are saved by Titus, a young man on a mysterious quest of his own, but once Bria is freed from captivity, Titus leaves her to fend for herself in the wilderness. — Literary Hub, 3 Aug. 2026 Guthrie’s death is unconfirmed, as no proof of her captivity or death has been provided by her abductors. — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 31 July 2026 Even the same people who bred Flaco for captivity stumble through answers about why keeping wild animals in confinement is, somehow, the right choice for them. — Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 30 July 2026 The movie, which starred an orca named Keiko, also dispelled myths about the killer whale and inspired activism around their captivity. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for captivity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of captivity was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing captivity

Rhymes for captivity

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Browse Nearby Words

captive bolt
captivity
captopril
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Cite this Entry

“Captivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/captivity. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on captivity

Nglish: Translation of captivity for Spanish Speakers

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