Captivity
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3
Emotional Weight
Captivity carries a sense of helplessness and sadness for the captive. The panda's eyes conveyed a deep sense of sadness from years of captivity.
Pro Tip 2/3
Human vs. Animals
Use 'captivity' for both people and animals imprisoned or not free to leave. Many animals in zoos are bred in captivity and never experience the wild.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not a Choice
'Captivity' implies a lack of freedom by force, not by the individual's choice. Rescued from captivity, the hostages were finally free.