The antonyms for the word "sets free" are numerous, as there are many different ways to express the opposite meaning. Some common examples include "imprisons," "confines," "restricts," "restrains," "detains," "captures," "holds" or "arrests" instead of setting someone or something free. Such opposite terms are commonly used in situations when freedom is taken away, either for legal or physical reasons, such as during imprisonment or captivity, or in the context of restricting someone's movement or actions. Overall, the antonyms of "sets free" describe various forms of control, whereas "sets free" implies release or liberation from that control.