HealthJuly 15, 2026

detainment

/dɪˈteɪnmənt/

Definition

The act of keeping someone in official custody, typically in a facility, often associated with immigration enforcement or legal proceedings.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Middle French 'detenir,' meaning 'to hold back,' which traces back to the Latin 'detinere.' It entered English in the 17th century to describe the state of being kept under restraint or confinement.

In the news

In the article, the term refers to the fear queer Latino youth feel regarding the potential for themselves or their family members to be held by immigration authorities. This constant state of worry is cited as a significant contributor to the high rates of anxiety and depression within that population.

Latino queer youth are facing a unique mental health crisis: Chicagoans are fighting to reach them

Read the full article ↗

Windy City Times

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