Synonyms for

Detain

Verb / dɪˈteɪn / Another word for detain — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to keep someone in a place and not allow them to leave, especially because they have done something wrong or illegal

Synonyms & similar words

delay stay confine rush free holdup arrest apprehend hold confine imprison incarcerate restrain keep jail

Synonyms by register

Formal

apprehend hold confine intern

Informal

hold up keep back pin down

Literary

enchain imprison

Antonyms

release free liberate discharge unfasten unleash

Common collocations

  • detain a suspect
  • detain a prisoner
  • detain for questioning
  • detain indefinitely
  • detain unlawfully
  • detain at the border
  • detain for investigation

Word family

noun detention
verb detain
adjective detained

Usage note

Often used in legal or official contexts to describe holding someone against their will. Can imply a temporary or prolonged period of confinement.

Example sentences

  1. The security guard will detain anyone who tries to steal from the store.
  2. The police detained the suspect until they could gather more evidence.
  3. The airport officials may detain passengers who are carrying illegal items.
  4. The soldiers were ordered to detain the enemy prisoners.
  5. The immigration officer has the authority to detain people who are trying to enter the country illegally.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words