Interned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interned

[ษชnหˆtษœrnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

Interned is the past tense of the verb 'intern,' meaning to confine or restrict an individual, usually in a certain location, such as a camp or facility, during a time of war or national emergency. This term is often associated with the practice of detaining individuals without trial, particularly in relation to historical events where civilians were confined due to their nationality or political beliefs. The act of interning can have significant implications on civil rights and liberties, often leading to long-lasting impacts on affected communities.

Synonyms

confined, detained, restricted.

Examples of usage

  • Many citizens were interned during the war.
  • He was interned for his political beliefs.
  • The government decided to intern enemy aliens.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During World War II, thousands of Japanese Americans were interned in camps, fearing they might be disloyal.
  • Internment camps have been established in various countries throughout history, often targeting specific groups during conflicts.

Legal Perspectives

  • Internment can sometimes infringe on human rights, raising questions about justice and morality.
  • International laws generally criticize the internment of individuals based solely on their nationality or ethnic background.

Psychological Impact

  • Being interned can lead to trauma and long-lasting psychological effects, influencing individualsโ€™ views about safety and community.
  • Families separated during internments often faced immense emotional strain, impacting generations.

Cultural Reflections

  • Literature, films, and art often explore themes of internment, emphasizing resilience and the struggle for identity.
  • Survivors of internment camps frequently share their stories to educate others about the importance of tolerance and freedom.

Contemporary Issues

  • Modern discussions about internment touch on immigration policies and how societies deal with perceived threats.
  • Historical internment cases continue to influence contemporary politics, related to civil rights and justice movements.

Origin of 'interned'

The term 'intern' originates from the French word 'internรฉ', which means 'to confine or imprison.' It gained prominence in the English language during the World War I and World War II periods when governments interned enemy aliens and other perceived threats. The practice saw widespread use, particularly in the United States and Canada, where thousands of individuals were detained in internment camps based on their ethnic backgrounds. The term's historical roots highlight the tensions associated with war and national security, reflecting a complex interplay between safety and individual rights. Over the decades, the implications of internment have sparked significant legal and moral debates, particularly in terms of human rights violations and the legacy of discrimination against specific groups.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,869, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.