Definition of "prison"

A place or institution where people are held against their will, in the US especially for long-term confinement, as of those convicted of serious crimes or otherwise considered undesirable by the government.  examples

(uncountable) Confinement in prison.  examples

(colloquial, figurative) Any restrictive environment, such as a harsh academy or home.  examples

(transitive) To imprison.  examples