detain

American  

[dih-teyn] / dɪˈteɪn /

verb (used with object)

1. to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.

   Synonyms:

   check, stay, stop, hinder, slow, retard

2. to keep under restraint or in custody.

3. Obsolete. to keep back or withhold, as from a person.

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detain British  

/ ˌdiːteɪˈniː, dɪˈteɪn /

verb

1. to delay; hold back; stop

2. to confine or hold in custody; restrain

3. archaic to retain or withhold

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Other Word Forms

• detainable adjective
• detainee noun
• detainment noun
• predetain verb (used with object)
• undetainable adjective
• undetained adjective

Etymology

Origin of detain

First recorded in 1480–90; detainen, from Anglo-French, Old French detenir, from unattested Vulgar Latin dētenīre, for Latin dētinēre, equivalent to dē- de- + -tinēre, combining form of tenēre “to hold”

Example Sentences

He said detention facilities were necessary to detain people so they could be guaranteed due process.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The AEA allows the government to detain and deport citizens of hostile foreign nations in times of war or during an "invasion or predatory incursion."

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

She delayed a “60 Minutes” segment on the government’s use of an El Salvador prison to detain undocumented migrants for more reporting, only to have it air with minor changes.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

In the journal, Mr. Hertling was able to detain the man.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

“When shall I see you?” asked Arobin, seeking to detain her, the maid having left the room.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

Related Words

• apprehend
• confine
• delay
• jail