verb

detain

dih-TAYN/dɪˈteɪn/

To prevent someone from leaving or proceeding.

A uniformed officer detains a man in a barred holding cell.

A uniformed officer closes a barred holding-cell door while a man remains inside, making physical custody and prevented departure directly visible.

Etymology

The pieces combine in the sense “hold back” or “keep away.” Holding someone back can prevent departure; in legal use, it means keeping that person in custody.

In context

AtlCody0:31

detain you to reasonably investigate. They can't pick you up. They can't slam you to the ground. They can't handcuff you, but they can stop you from leaving.

Ask a Lawyer Security Officer Detention Rights Explained

More examples

Police detain the driver while they check his identification.
Security officers detained us at the entrance for a bag check.
I know you're busy, so I won't detain you any longer.

Forms

detain · detains · detained · detaining

detention noun — The act of keeping someone in custody.

detainee noun — A person held in official custody.

Similar words

hold: Hold is broader and need not involve official authority.
arrest: Arrest specifically involves taking someone into custody under legal authority.
delay: Delay emphasizes making people late rather than restricting their freedom.