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Showing results for detain. Search instead for detainm.
Definitions

detain

[dih-teyn] / dɪˈteɪn /
VERB
hold, keep back; arrest
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apprehend confine delay jail
STRONG
bust buttonhole check constrain decelerate hinder ice impede inhibit intern mire nab pinch reserve restrain retard withhold
WEAK
bog down hang up hold up pick up pull in put away run-in send up set back slow down slow up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
free liberate
STRONG
advance aid allow assist facilitate forward give help let go offer permit push 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.

It can only be effective "if there are also stronger efforts to identify, detain, investigate and prosecute, in accordance with international standards, those who fund, organise and support the gangs' activities", Turk added.

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

Ramos made headlines in January when a photo emerged of the 5-year-old with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer while other officers attempted to detain his father, Adrian Conejo Arias, at their home in Minneapolis.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

In the journal, Mr. Hertling was able to detain the man.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

Following the arrest Lord Mandelson's lawyers complained about the decision to detain him and said it was prompted by a "baseless" suggestion he was planning to "take up permanent residence abroad".

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2026

As he had discovered the first day, getting into trouble could both detain him after school and boost his popularity with the guys.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli