Definition of the word detention

The word "detention" originated in the 14th century from the Old French word "detenir," which means "to hold back" or "to retain." Initially, the term referred to the act of holding or keeping something, such as a ship or a prisoner. Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to include the concept of temporary confinement or imprisonment, often as punishment or for security purposes. In the context of education, the term "detention" emerged in the 19th century to describe a form of punishment or supplementary instruction assigned to a student as a consequence of misbehavior or academic underperformance. Today, detention can refer to a range of measures, from in-school suspensions to extracurricular activities or homework assignments designed to correct or redirect a student's behavior.