detain
verb (used with object)
to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.
has detained
-
present perfectof detain (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the 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.
Since then, the new government has detained numerous former officials and security personnel, though most senior figures from the old regime, including Assad himself, remain out of reach in Russia.
From BBC ● Aug. 11, 2026
The three other ships France has detained since September on suspicion of belonging to the shadow fleet were allowed to sail after their owners paid fines.
From Barron's ● Jun. 1, 2026
ICE doesn’t release public data about how many minors it has detained.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 23, 2026
He referred to Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem, whose agency has detained and interrogated visa holders at U.S. points of entry.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 21, 2025
Something has detained him, but he will soon come.
From The International Monthly Magazine, Volume 5, No. 1, January, 1852 by Various
