detention Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a state of being confined (usually for a short time)
    hold; custody; detainment.
    • his detention was politically motivated
    • the prisoner is on hold
    • he is in the custody of police
  2. noun a punishment in which a student must stay at school after others have gone home
    • the detention of tardy pupils

WordNet

De*ten"tion noun
Etymology
L. detentio: cf. F. détention. See Detain.
Definitions
  1. The act of detaining or keeping back; a withholding.
  2. The state of being detained (stopped or hindered); delay from necessity.
  3. Confinement; restraint; custody.
    The archduke Philip . . . found himself in a sort of honorable detention at Henry's court. Hallam.

Webster 1913