Custody
/ˈkʌstədi/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe care, control, and responsibility for someone or something.
/ˈkʌstədi/
The state of being kept or protected by a person or authority.
The museum had the valuable painting in its custody.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in charge of keeping something safe, like your favorite toy or a little sibling. Custody means being in charge and making sure they're protected. Think of the police having custody of someone they've arrested.
👶 For kids: Being in charge of taking care of someone or something.
More Examples
She fought for custody of her children after the divorce.
The police took the suspect into custody.
How It's Used
"The suspect was taken into police custody."
"The court granted the mother custody of the children."
The state of being imprisoned or detained, especially by the police.
/ˈkʌstədi/
Detention in a prison or jail.
The suspect remained in custody after the arraignment.
💡 Simply: When someone is arrested and kept in jail or at the police station, they are in custody. It means they're not free to go.
👶 For kids: Being kept safe by the police until a decision can be made.
More Examples
He was released from custody after posting bail.
The judge ordered him to be remanded in custody.
How It's Used
"He was held in custody until his trial."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
take into custody
To arrest and detain someone.
"The police took the suspect into custody for questioning."
child custody
The legal right to care for a child.
"The divorce settlement determined the child custody arrangements."
in police custody
Detained by the police.
"The suspect is currently in police custody."
From Middle English custodie, from Old French custodie, from Latin custodia (“guarding, protection”), from custos (“guardian”).
The term 'custody' has been used in legal and familial contexts since the medieval period, reflecting the importance of guardianship and protection.
Memory tip
Think of a security guard 'guarding' someone.
Word Origin
"guardian"