detain
verb (used with object)
to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.
have detained
-
present perfectof detain.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.
Authorities have detained a number of people who work for the factory's owners, and the firm's bank account was frozen, according to Xinhua.
From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Thursday that authorities have detained a suspect who used a Georgian passport and are “working to establish the mastermind.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
Authorities say they have detained and deported more than 13,000 foreign nationals involved in online scams since early last year.
From Barron's ● Apr. 30, 2026
At the same time, the Houthis have detained 73 U.N. staff members and confiscated vehicles and telecommunications equipment, leaving the U.N. unable to operate.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2026
I broke from St. John, who had followed, and would have detained me.
From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë
