Definition of: arrest

(ə·rest′) v.t.
1. To stop suddenly; check, as the course, movement, or development of.
2. To take into custody by legal authority.
3. To attract and fix, as the attention; engage.
—noun
1. An arresting or being arrested; especially, seizure by legal authority.
2. A device for arresting motion, as in a machine. [<OF arester <LL arrestare <L ad- to + restore stop, remain] Synonyms (verb): apprehend, capture, catch, delay, hold, obstruct, restrain, secure, seize, stop. Antonyms: discharge, dismiss, free, liberate, release.