Want to say detain differently? Here are other words for detain and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of detain
The primary meaning of the word "detain" is to keep someone or something in a place, or to delay or stop something from happening.
Etymology of detain
The word "detain" comes from the Old French word "detenir", which is derived from the Latin words "de" (meaning "from" or "away") and "tenere" (meaning "to hold").
Historically, the word "detain" has been used since the 15th century to mean "to keep back" or "to restrain", and its meaning has evolved over time to include the sense of taking someone into custody.
Synonyms
arrest
capture
seize
apprehend
confine
imprison
jail
hold
keep
restrain
restrict
hinder
delay
stop
impede
obstruct
block
hinder
curb
limit
restrain
contain
hold back
keep in
lock up
take into custody
apprehend
seize
take hold of
clutch
grab
lay hold of
clasp
grip
confine
enclose
shut in
lock in
cage
intern
immure.
Definitions
- To keep someone in a place, especially in prison or custody, or to delay or stop something from happening.
- To restrain or hold back someone or something, or to prevent them from leaving or proceeding.
- To take someone into custody, especially by the police or other authority.
Usage Examples
- The police detained the suspect for further questioning.
- The flight was detained due to bad weather.
- The company detained the shipment because of a dispute over payment.
- The government detained the activist for speaking out against the regime.