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Definition of custody

custody

/ˈkʌs.tə.di/
cus · to · dy
Adverb:custodially
•
Plural:custodies
•
Adjective:custodial
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custody Lexical Profile

custody Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The protective care, guardianship, or safekeeping of someone or something, especially the legal right or duty to care for a child.

Example

"Following the divorce proceedings, both parents agreed to share joint custody of their children."

2

The state of being detained or held under guard by the police or legal authorities, especially while awaiting trial.

Example

"The suspect was taken into custody shortly after the investigation concluded."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for custody
Antonyms
View all antonyms for custody

• Nearby Words

custodial
custodian
custodianship
custody
custom
customarily
customary

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin custodia ('a keeping, watch, or guard'), derived from custos ('guardian' or 'keeper').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Custody. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/custody
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