detain
verb (used with object)
to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.
are detaining
-
present progressiveof detain.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Authorities are detaining people and warning such acts could be considered treason.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 5, 2026
The Ukrainian Border Police recently reported that they are detaining up to 20 men a day.
From BBC ● Jun. 8, 2023
All of the foreign governments that are detaining Americans have, at best, rocky relations with the United States.
From New York Times ● Jul. 17, 2022
“Where we saw that we needed to close the gap further was for law enforcement officers who are detaining individuals pre-arrest,” Delaney said.
From Washington Times ● Oct. 2, 2020
“Matant, they said they are detaining her,” I say.
From "American Street" by Ibi Zoboi
