detain
verb (used with object)
to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.
were detaining
-
past progressiveof detain.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
When I came up in the elevator yesterday before I even got to the floor, as soon as the doors open, a group of ICE agents were holding someone that they were detaining.
From Slate ● Jun. 18, 2025
California Highway Patrol officers were detaining the protesters, leading them to over two dozen police cruisers on the freeway.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 13, 2023
She asked officers why they were detaining her, but they didn’t answer.
From Washington Times ● Jun. 4, 2023
At the same time, Mexican authorities were detaining some migrants.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 20, 2021
She thought the ghins were detaining her, and she prayed to Allah from her inmost soul to release her from their dread enchantment.
From Mohammed Ali and His House by Coleman, Chapman, Mrs.
