Meaning & Definition of word "Arrest"
Arrest
/əˈrɛst/
noun:
- 1. The act of seizing someone by legal authority.
- Example: The arrest took place in the early morning hours.
- 2. A stoppage or cessation of movement, action, or progress.
- Example: There was an arrest in the negotiations after both parties disagreed on the terms.
verb:
- 1. To seize (someone) by legal authority; to take them into custody.
- Example: The police will arrest anyone caught stealing.
- 2. To stop a process or action.
- Example: The medical team worked quickly to arrest the patient's bleeding.
- 3. To attract or hold the attention of.
- Example: The artist's use of color can arrest the viewer's gaze.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old French 'arrestier', from Latin 'arrestare', meaning to stop or stay.
Common Phrases and Expressions
make an arrest:
To capture someone suspected of a crime.
arrest warrant:
A legal document authorizing the arrest of an individual.
citizen's arrest:
An arrest made by a person who is not acting as a law enforcement official.
Related Words
detention:
The act of holding someone in custody.
incarceration:
The state of being confined in prison.
bail:
Temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial.
Slang Meanings of arrest
Meaning: Cuffed
● Example Sentence: He got cuffed after the chase.
Meaning: Bust
● Example Sentence: The club got busted by the police last night.