die Haft, -en
custody · detention · imprisonment
Eine Zeit, in der eine Person von Behörden festgehalten wird und sich nicht frei bewegen darf.
Definition & meaning
The German noun Haft primarily refers to the legal state of being detained or imprisoned. It describes the deprivation of liberty by an authority.
- Imprisonment/Detention: The state of being held in custody, such as in a prison or jail.
- Legal custody: The specific legal act of holding someone for investigation or as a penalty.
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a feminine noun (die Haft). It is rarely used in the plural, though Haften can technically be used in specific legal contexts (like multiple periods of detention).
- Origin: The word originates from the Middle High German haft, related to the verb haften (to stick, to adhere, or to be liable). Etymologically, it shares roots with the concept of being "bound" or "attached" to a place.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Der Verdächtige befindet sich in Haft.noun
The suspect is in custody.
Er wurde in Haft genommen.noun
He was detained.
Er ist in Haft.noun
He is in detention.
Er muss in Haft bleiben.noun
He has to remain in custody.
Nach langer Haft wurde er freigelassen.noun
After a long imprisonment, he was released.
Die Haft des Angeklagten dauert an.noun
The imprisonment of the defendant continues.
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