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Detainment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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detainment

[dɪˈteɪnmənt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

law enforcement

The action of detaining someone in official custody, especially as a political prisoner.

Synonyms

custody, imprisonment, incarceration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detainment

This term is used to describe a temporary restraint or confinement, often by law enforcement, without necessarily implying a formal charge or long-term imprisonment.

  • The suspect was placed under detainment while the police conducted their investigation.
  • After the protest, several demonstrators were held in detainment but released shortly afterwards.
imprisonment

This word refers to the state of being imprisoned as a result of a legal sentence, typically for committing a crime. It has a formal and often negative connotation.

  • After the trial, he was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment for robbery.
  • The novel details the protagonist’s experiences during his imprisonment.
incarceration

Similar to imprisonment, this term is used in a legal context to describe being confined in a prison or jail. It also carries a negative connotation and suggests a formal sentencing.

  • The new policies aim to reduce the rates of incarceration for non-violent offenses.
  • His long-term incarceration had a profound impact on his family.
custody

This word can describe both the legal right to care for someone (like a child) or a state of being held by authorities. It implies a formal process and responsibility.

  • She was awarded custody of the children after the divorce.
  • The suspect is currently in police custody and will be questioned tomorrow.

Examples of usage

  • The detainment of political activists sparked international outrage.
  • She was subjected to hours of detainment at the airport.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • Detainment can occur without formal charges, often seen in cases of suspicion or immigration.
  • In many countries, laws protect individuals from unlawful detainment, promoting fair legal practices.
  • Detention centers are specifically designated facilities where individuals are held for various reasons, including immigration violations.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, detainment practices reflect the balance between national security and individual freedoms.
  • Detainment issues have sparked numerous protests, especially regarding political prisoners in authoritarian regimes.
  • Representations of detainment in film and literature often highlight themes of justice, freedom, and human rights.

Psychology

  • Experiences of detainment can lead to psychological stress and feelings of helplessness.
  • Studies show that the environment during detention can significantly impact individuals' mental health.
  • The concept of being detained often raises questions about authority and personal autonomy in society.

Global Issues

  • Detainment practices vary widely across different countries, heavily influenced by their legal and political systems.
  • Debates around detainment often include discussions on human rights and ethical treatment of individuals.
  • Events such as protests or political unrest can lead to increased detainment as authorities respond to civil disobedience.

Origin of 'detainment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'detainment' comes from the Latin word 'detinere', which means 'to hold back'.
  • It became more commonly used in English legal language in the 19th century.
  • The prefix 'de-' suggests removal, while 'tain' relates to holding onto something.

The word 'detainment' originated from the verb 'detain', which comes from the Old French word 'détenir', meaning 'to hold back'. The concept of detainment has been present in various legal systems throughout history, with the purpose of holding individuals in custody for various reasons such as investigations, questioning, or imprisonment.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,358, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.