How Do You Spell JAILHOUSE?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈe͡ɪlha͡ʊs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "jailhouse" can be somewhat confusing due to the silent letter "h" in its middle. However, the IPA phonetic transcription sheds some light on this: [ˈdʒeɪlˌhaʊs]. The "j" represents the "dʒ" sound, the "a" represents the "eɪ" sound, and the "l" represents the "l" sound. The "h" may be silent, but it affects the preceding "a" by making it a longer "eɪ" sound. Finally, the "s" at the end is simple enough. So, "jailhouse" is pronounced "JAY-ul-haus."

JAILHOUSE Meaning and Definition

1. Jailhouse, noun:

   1. A place of confinement for individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a crime, commonly referred to as a jail or prison. It is a secure facility designed to house prisoners and maintain public safety. In this context, the term "jailhouse" is often used informally to refer to the physical building and its associated facilities, such as cells, exercise areas, and administrative offices.

   2. A style of music, also known as prison music, originating from African American work songs and folk music that developed within the prison system. Jailhouse music often features repetitive rhythmic patterns and lyrics, often centered around themes of hard labor, injustice, and longing for freedom. It has its roots in the United States and has been historically associated with African American prisoners, who used music as a means of expression and resistance.

   3. A term used to describe someone's dwelling place that resembles or is reminiscent of a prison or jail, typically due to its cramped and uncomfortable conditions or lack of freedom. This usage is often metaphorical, emphasizing the idea of being confined or restricted within a particular space, whether literal or symbolic. It can be used to describe a physical location, such as a small or unpleasant living space, or a metaphorical state, such as being trapped in a difficult or oppressive situation.

Common Misspellings for JAILHOUSE

• hailhouse
• nailhouse
• mailhouse
• jaihlouse
• jaillhouse
• stilhouse
• Ahlhouse
• Jewlhouse
• eatinhouse

Etymology of JAILHOUSE

The word "jailhouse" has its origin in the 19th century in the United States. It is a compound word formed by combining "jail", which can be traced back to the Old French "jaiole", meaning "cage", and "house", derived from the Old English "hūs". The term "jailhouse" essentially means "the house or building where prisoners are confined".

Idioms with the word JAILHOUSE

• jailhouse lawyer The idiom "jailhouse lawyer" refers to an inmate in a correctional facility who possesses legal knowledge and skills, often self-taught, and provides legal advice or assistance to fellow prisoners. These individuals may have a rudimentary understanding of the law and can help navigate legal processes within the prison system or offer guidance on legal matters faced by inmates.

Similar spelling word for JAILHOUSE

• jalousie.

Plural form of JAILHOUSE is JAILHOUSES