1. to keep someone from leaving; to hold in custody
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘detain’
2. to delay or prevent someone from proceeding
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘detain’

Examples

• The security guard detains anyone without proper identification.
• Traffic often detains commuters during rush hour.
• The teacher detains students who misbehave after class.
• Bad weather detains flights at the airport.
• Police detain suspects for questioning.
• The customs officer detains travelers with suspicious luggage.
• A flat tire detains us on our way to the meeting.