Synonyms of detention

detention

noun

di-ˈten-chən 

1

as in imprisonment

the state of being held in lawful custody

he's been in detention since the arrest

Synonyms & Similar Words

• imprisonment
• incarceration
• captivity
• confinement
• internment
• detainment
• detainer
• arrest
• hold
• immurement
• seizure
• apprehension
• collar
• capture
• restraint
• arrestment
• entrapment
• pinch
• bust
• enchainment

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• discharge
• release
• freedom
• liberation
• emancipation

2

as in delay

an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business

the detention at the airport security checkpoint was brief, but because he was running late, it caused him to miss his flight

Synonyms & Similar Words

• delay
• wait
• holdup
• detainment
• postponement
• deferral
• deferment
• setback
• respite
• holding pattern
• pause
• hesitation
• holdback
• lag
• slowdown
• reprieve
• foot-dragging

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• rush
• haste
• dispatch
• promptness
• promptitude

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of detention

Still, Shackelford said more lawyers are able to work with immigrants on their bond hearings than with the habeas cases challenging mandatory detention, making help more readily available. — Idaho Statesman, 20 Aug. 2026

The ruling builds on earlier reforms aimed at reducing pretrial detention based solely on a person's financial circumstances. — James Ward, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2026

As of late last year, nearly three-quarters of the more than 70,000 people held in ICE detention — itself a record — had no criminal conviction of any kind. — Arlene Marcus, Sun Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2026

According to detention standards, officials are required to provide, in writing, a reason for a rejection of a complaint and detainees can appeal an unfounded determination up to two times. — Vanessa Romo, NPR, 20 Aug. 2026