Detain

To officially keep someone in custody or prevent them from leaving a place, typically for questioning or investigation, or to delay or hold up something. This action often involves legal authority or physical restraint, signifying a temporary restriction of freedom. It's crucial to distinguish the reasons for detention, as they vary from legal proceedings to minor inconveniences. The length of detention varies based on the situation and jurisdiction. Detaining can occur in various contexts, like law enforcement or even at a border control.

Detain meaning with examples

• The police decided to detain the suspect after finding evidence at the crime scene. They wanted to question him further about his possible involvement in the bank robbery. The suspect remained under custody for nearly two days before the police decided to release him. This period was necessary for interrogation and investigation.
• Customs officers at the airport **detained** the traveler because his passport seemed suspicious. They brought him to a secure room to clarify his travel documents and background. After verifying the passport's authenticity, the traveler was released. This brief detainment caused him to miss his connecting flight and made him late.
• Heavy traffic on the highway **detained** the ambulance carrying the injured person. Paramedics fought to provide medical care to the victim. The delay caused severe concern as every second was crucial to ensure the survival of the person. The injured person was saved after the paramedics were able to transfer him to the hospital.
• Due to heavy snowfall, the airport **detained** all incoming and outgoing flights for several hours. Passengers were stranded on the plane, unable to depart, creating significant delays for thousands of travelers. Once the snow stopped, the flights started with a time-shifted schedule.