də̇ˈtenchən, dēˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle French or Late Latin; Middle French, from Late Latin detention-, detentio retention, from Latin detentus (past participle of detinēre to detain) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at detain
1. : the act or fact of detaining:
a. : a holding in custody
detention of a tardy pupil after school hours
b. : a holding back
the detention of a motorist by a traffic officer
2. : the state of being detained
detention in jail
: enforced delay
accidental detention on a journey
especially : a period of temporary custody prior to disposition by a court
the detention of juvenile delinquents
3. civil law : a bare physical control without the mental element of intention required for possession