der Gefangene, -n

The German word "Gefangene" is a noun meaning "prisoner" or "captive".

• It comes from the verb "fangen" meaning "to catch" or "to capture".
• The suffix "-e" here indicates the plural form or, as a noun, the feminine form depending on the context.

Similar words:

• Häftling — inmate, prisoner (emphasizes detention in prison)
• Sträfling — convict (someone sentenced for a crime)
• Insasse — inmate (in a prison or other institution)

Differences:

• Gefangene is a general term for anyone caught or captured, often used for prisoners of war or captives.
• Häftling and Sträfling typically refer more specifically to criminals serving sentences.
• Insasse can refer broadly to any inmate, not necessarily a criminal (e.g., also psychiatric facilities).