behind bars
In jail or prison. I hear Mike's uncle is behind bars again. I wonder what he did this time! Sir, I'm afraid your son has been put behind bars on a charge of drunk driving.
*behind bars
in jail. (*Typically: be ~; put someone ~.) Very soon, you will be behind bars for your crimes. Max should be behind bars soon for his conviction on burglary charges.
behind bars
In prison, as in All murderers should be put behind bars for life. The bars here refer to the iron rods used to confine prisoners. [c. 1900]
behind ˈbars
(informal) in prison: Criminals like him ought to be put behind bars for life.behind bars
mod. in jail; in prison. You belong behind bars, you creep!