detention

[dih-ten-shuhn] / dɪˈtɛn ʃən /

NOUN

confinement, imprisonment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arrest custody delay incarceration internment quarantine

STRONG

apprehension bust detainment hindrance immurement impediment pen pickup pinch restraint retention withholding

WEAK

arrestation holding back holding pen keeping in nab time up the river

Antonyms

STRONG

aid assistance help

WEAK

freedom liberation release

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The U.S. committed to lifting detention measures on Chinese dairy products, while China will expedite reviews for U.S. beef companies.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

It showed him visiting a detention facility at the port of Ashdod where the activists are being held.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

I constantly think about the people who were in detention with me.

From Slate • May 19, 2026

"Deisy is out of the detention facility and we're going home today," he said.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

After detention, Benji had his mom pick him up and take him home.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

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