detachment

[dih-tach-muhnt]

noun

1. the act of detaching.

2. the condition of being detached. detached.

3. aloofness, as from worldly affairs or from the concerns of others.

   Synonyms: unconcern, indifference, coolness

4. freedom from prejudice or partiality.

5. the act of sending out a detached detached force of troops or naval ships.

6. the body of troops or ships so detached. detached.

detachment

/ dɪˈtætʃmənt /

noun

1. indifference to other people or to one's surroundings; aloofness

2. freedom from self-interest or bias; disinterest

3. the act of disengaging or separating something

4. the condition of being disengaged or separated; disconnection

5. military

   1. the separation of a small unit from its main body, esp of ships or troops

   2. the unit so detached

6. a branch office of a police force

7. logic the rule whereby the consequent of a true conditional statement, given the truth of its antecedent, may be asserted on its own See also modus ponens

Other Word Forms

• nondetachment noun
• predetachment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of detachment¹

From the French word détachement, dating back to 1660–70. See detach, -ment

Example Sentences

Instrument Serif’s designers have watched its spread with detachment.

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Romania, the lawmakers noted, is a reliable ally that has hosted a U.S. missile defense detachment since 2016.

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This change in mind-set fits within a broader cultural arc that includes the “Buddha-like” attitude and the “lying flat” movement—rejections of relentless competition in favor of detachment.

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He spoke with detachment, as he often does.

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Can a detailed examination of a band known for their “cool detachment,” “workmanlike” approach and “apathetic demeanor” hold a reader’s interest through this much scrutiny?

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Related Words

• indifference 
• neutrality 
• objectivity 
• remoteness www.thesaurus.com