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Definition of detain

detain

/dɪˈteɪn/
de · tain
Adjective:detainable
•
Past Simple:detained
•
Past Participle:detained
•
Present Participle:detaining
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detain Lexical Profile

detain Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To keep someone in official custody, typically for questioning about a crime or in politically sensitive situations.

Example

"Customs officials decided to detain the traveler for several hours while they verified the validity of his passport."

2

To keep someone from proceeding by holding them back or making claims on their attention.

Example

"She tried to leave the office on time, but a last-minute phone call from a client served to detain her."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for detain

• Nearby Words

detailed
detailer
detailing
detain
detainee
detainment
detangle

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Old French detenir, which derives from Latin detinere ('to hold back' or 'keep off'), formed from de- ('away, back') and tenere ('to hold').

Cite this Entry

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