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Detain: meaning, definitions and examples

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detain

 

[ dɪˈteɪn ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

law enforcement

To keep someone in official custody, typically for questioning or investigation.

Synonyms

apprehend, arrest, confine, hold

Examples of usage

  • They were detained by the police for further questioning.
  • The suspect was detained at the border for further investigation.
Context #2 | Verb

immigration

To prevent someone from leaving a place, especially a country.

Synonyms

confine, delay, hold back

Examples of usage

  • She was detained at the airport due to visa issues.
  • The immigrant was detained by immigration authorities.

Translations

Translations of the word "detain" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deter

🇮🇳 गिरफ्तार करना

🇩🇪 festnehmen

🇮🇩 menahan

🇺🇦 затримувати

🇵🇱 zatrzymać

🇯🇵 拘束する (こうそくする)

🇫🇷 détenir

🇪🇸 detener

🇹🇷 gözaltına almak

🇰🇷 구금하다

🇸🇦 احتجاز

🇨🇿 zadržet

🇸🇰 zadržať

🇨🇳 拘留 (jūliú)

🇸🇮 aretirati

🇮🇸 handtaka

🇰🇿 ұстау

🇬🇪 დაკავება

🇦🇿 saxlamaq

🇲🇽 detener

Word origin

The word 'detain' originates from the Old French word 'detenir', which means 'to hold, keep back'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, the meaning of the word has evolved to refer to holding someone in official custody, particularly by law enforcement or immigration authorities.

See also: detained, detainee, detainees, detainment, detention.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,493, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.