Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for detention. Search instead for Detentions.
Definitions

detention

[dih-ten-shuhn] / dɪˈtɛn ʃən /


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.

The psychiatrist said failing to take medicine was not unusual among patients with schizophrenia and was not a reason for detention - the "net effect of that on the person" is.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Moltke said she recalled a large group of protesters gathered near the Marines stationed at the northern end of the detention center, just before police and ICE swept through and forced her to the ground.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

More than 90% of people jailed pretrial were charged with offenses that didn’t even qualify for detention under the California Constitution: shoplifting, driving without a license, vandalism.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Spain and Brazil have said their detention is illegal and demanded their release.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

She wanted me to go to the office, get my detention, and stay out of her life.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda




Vocabulary lists containing detention