1. the act or fact of holding or keeping someone in custody or preventing them from leaving
Usage: formal; often used in legal or official contexts
2. the act of delaying or holding back something; a delay
Usage: less common than 'detention' in this sense

Examples

• The detainment of the suspect lasted three days before charges were filed.
• Police justified the detainment as necessary for public safety.
• The detainment of the shipment at customs caused a two-week delay.
• Without proper legal grounds, the detainment of a citizen is unconstitutional.
• The immigration officer explained the reasons for the traveler's detainment.
• Any detainment beyond 72 hours requires a court order.