Pronunciation

/arrest/

Definitions

Noun

Arrest: /əˈrɛst/

1. The act of taking someone into custody by law enforcement, typically because they are suspected of a crime or to prevent them from fleeing.
2. The state of being detained or restrained.
3. A sudden stop or interruption, often in a person’s movement or activity.

Verb

To arrest: /əˈrɛst/

1. To take (a person) into custody or detain them due to suspicion of a crime.
2. To cause (someone’s attention) to be fixed on something, usually abruptly.
3. To halt or prevent the progress of (a process or event).

Adjective

Arresting: /əˈrɛstɪŋ/

1. Catching one’s attention because of its unusual quality or striking appearance.
2. Severe or sudden, especially in a change of direction or intensity.

Phrases

• “Arrest someone” means to take them into police custody.
• “Under arrest” signifies that someone has been legally detained.
• “Arrested development” refers to a lack of emotional or mental maturity.
• “An arresting view” describes a visually striking scene.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The police arrested the suspect after a chase.”
• Verb: “The crowd was suddenly arrested by the sound of the orchestra.”
• Adjective: “The sunset was an arresting sight, painting the sky with vibrant colors.”

Synonyms

• Detain
• Capture
• Reckon
• Seize
• Impound

Note: “Reckon” can also be used informally to mean suspect or think someone is guilty, but it’s less common than “arrest.”