That which locks or unlocks a movement; a catch (stopping mechanism), pawl, or dog; especially, in clockwork, the catch which locks and unlocks the wheelwork in striking.

The action of creating a detent mechanism to lock or unlock movement.

Alternative form of détente

(uncountable) The act of detaining or the state of being detained. / (law) Confinement of a prisoner awaiting trial.

plural of detente

plural of detent

plural of detention

simple past tense and past participle of detent

present participle of detent

(US) An institution in which juvenile offenders are temporarily housed.