Meaning & Definition of Custody in English

1. A state of being confined (usually for a short time)

• "His detention was politically motivated"

• "The prisoner is on hold"

• "He is in the custody of police"

2. Holding by the police

• "The suspect is in custody"

3. (with `in') guardianship over

• In divorce cases it is the right to house and care for and discipline a child

• "My fate is in your hands"

• "Too much power in the president's hands"

• "Your guests are now in my custody"

• "The mother was awarded custody of the children"