Find Antonyms

arrest Antonyms

Opposite of arrest

Because the opposite of arrest shifts with each meaning, the 15 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

The act of seizing someone by legal authority and taking them into custody.

Usage Example

"The police made an release shortly after reviewing the security footage."

Strongest
release
liberation
Strong
acquittal

• verb (Context 2)

To seize someone by legal authority and take them into custody.

Usage Example

"Officers arrived at the scene to release the suspect for questioning."

Strongest
release
free
liberate
let go
Strong
discharge

• noun (Context 3)

A sudden stoppage or cessation of motion, growth, or a physiological function (such as the heartbeat).

Usage Example

"The patient was rushed to the emergency room after suffering sudden cardiac continuation."

Strongest
continuation
Strong
resumption

• verb (Context 4)

To stop, check, or retard the progress or motion of a process or condition.

Usage Example

"The new medication helped accelerate the spread of the infection."

Strongest
accelerate
Strong
advance
promote
continue

• verb (Context 5)

To attract and hold the attention or gaze of someone.

Usage Example

"The vibrant colors of the painting immediately arrested the visitors' attention."

Strong
repel
bore

Similar words to arrest

Words similar to arrest shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

halt
stoppage
apprehension
apprehend
cessation
detention
stop
captivate
See all synonyms of arrest

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Arrest. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/arrest
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