Captivity

usgb/kæpˈtɪvəti/
noun

The situation where someone or something is trapped or locked up and is unable to leave or be free.

The tiger lived in captivity for many years before it was eventually released into the wild.
Visual representation of "captivity" - The situation where someone or something is trapped or locked up and is unable to leave or be free

Often appears as...

  • held in captivity
  • live in captivity
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "captivity"
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Emotional Weight

Captivity carries a sense of helplessness and sadness for the captive.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
The panda's eyes conveyed a deep sense of sadness from years of captivity.
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Human vs. Animals

Use 'captivity' for both people and animals imprisoned or not free to leave.

Illustration for Human vs. Animals
Many animals in zoos are bred in captivity and never experience the wild.
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Not a Choice

'Captivity' implies a lack of freedom by force, not by the individual's choice.

Illustration for Not a Choice
Rescued from captivity, the hostages were finally free.
Word comparison image

Compare with

bondageconfinementcustodydetentionenslaveimprisonincarcerateinternsubjugate
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Visual representation of the word "Captivity"

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