Find Synonyms

detainment Synonyms

Another word for detainment

Choosing another word for detainment depends on context, so the 11 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
JUMP TO:

• noun (Context 1)

The act of holding someone back or keeping them in official custody, or the state of being held in custody.

Usage Example

"The human rights organization expressed concern over the prolonged detention of the journalists without formal charges."

Strongest
detention
custody
Strong
confinement
internment
incarceration
imprisonment
captivity

• noun (Context 2)

The act of delaying or keeping someone or something from proceeding.

Usage Example

"The unexpected delay of the cargo ship at the port disrupted the entire supply chain."

Strongest
delay
Strong
hold-up
retardation
Weak
hindrance

Opposites of detainment

The opposite of detainment shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

release
liberation
freedom
continuation
discharge
expedition
emancipation
advancement
See all opposites of detainment

• Nearby Words

detailing
detain
detainee
detainment
detangle
detangler
detax

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Detainment. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/detainment
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.