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Definition custody in British English

custody noun

[uncountable] noun
/ˈkʌstədi/
1

the legal right to look after a child

Example

The parents have joint custody of their children (=both parents will look after the children).

Example

The girl's father was awarded sole custody.

Synonyms and related words
2

a situation in which someone is kept in prison until they go to court for trial

Example

One of the men detained is still in custody.

Example

Suspects can be kept in police custody for up to 48 hours.

Example

The suspect had been taken into custody and was being questioned.

Example

All five men were remanded in custody until Wednesday.

Synonyms and related words
3

the protection or care of someone or something

Example

The files in question are in the custody of the FBI.

Synonyms and related words
Definition custody in British English