Detain

Definition

Detain refers to the act of holding someone back or keeping them in custody, typically by law enforcement, to prevent them from leaving or moving freely. It can also refer to delaying someone or something temporarily.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈteɪn/
• Respelling: dih-TAYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈteɪn/
• Respelling: dih-TAYN

The pronunciation of "detain" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "detain" originates from the Latin word "detinere," meaning "to hold back" or "to keep." It is a combination of "de-" meaning "from" or "away" and "tenere" meaning "to hold." The term entered English in the late Middle Ages, retaining its meaning of holding or delaying someone or something.

Derivatives

• Detention (noun)
• Detainee (noun)
• Detaining (verb)
• Indetainable (adjective)
• Detainable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Arrest
• Hold
• Delay

Antonyms

• Release
• Free
• Let go

Usage

The term "detain" is frequently used in legal and law enforcement contexts to describe the temporary custody of individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities. It is also used in everyday language to refer to any situation where someone or something is delayed or held back. In a legal sense, detaining does not necessarily imply formal arrest but can be a precursor to further legal action.

Related Terms

• Imprison: To confine someone in prison as punishment or while awaiting trial.
• Incarcerate: To put someone in prison or another form of detention.
• Restrict: To limit someone's movement or actions.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To hold or keep someone in custody: Refers to law enforcement holding someone for investigation or questioning.
  • Example: "The police detained the suspect for questioning."
• To delay someone or something temporarily: Refers to holding someone back from proceeding, usually for a short period.
  • Example: "She was detained at the airport due to security checks."